The rate at which we accumulate genetic mutations can help predict our lifespan and fertility
Scientists at the University of Utah Health believe that differences in the rate of genetic mutation accumulation in young adults can help predict the remaining lifespan of both sexes, as well as the remaining years of fertile age for women. The study, which is believed to be a first in its field, showed that those young adults with fewer mutations lived five years longer than others who acquired them faster.
Researchers say that the discovery could lead to the development and testing of interventions to slow down the aging process.
If the results of this small study were validated by independent research, the implications would be enormous, says Lynn B. Jorde Ph.D. chair of the Department of Human Genetics at U of U Health, and co-author of the report. It would mean we could find ways to improve ourselves and live longer lives.
Source:
https://medicalxpress.com/news/2020-06-genetic-mutations-lifespan-fertility.html
