Scientists identify new longevity genes

Scientists from the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, United States, have finished a study to identify the relation between genes that can help people live a longer life of 100 years. This discovery can be a new breakthrough and will be a big leap to anti aging medicine.

The researchers examined an Ashkenazi Jewish community in the United States who averaged 97 years of age. The results show same connection that existed in those who lived for more 100 years of age and their descendants; it was on the level of the telomerase enzyme, one type of enzyme that can prevent cells aging.

As reported by the Telegraph, scientists found 86 parents and their children have higher levels of telomerase that functions to protect DNA.

Telomerase is a special section of DNA that sits at the end of the chromosome, like a plastic sheath at the end of shoelaces to prevent loose fibers woven rope. Every time a cell divides, the telomerase will shorten and become more vulnerable to death.

People aged over 90 years and their offspring have higher telomerase and make them significantly more longevity than people who are not related in the control. This study has been published in the journal 'Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences'.