Scientists need to reconsider which genes are responsible for aging
Researchers at the National Institutes of Health fed fruit flies antibacterial drugs and tracked the activity of hundreds of genes, which scientists had traditionally believed controlled aging. The antibiotics, to their surprise not only prolonged the life of the fruit flies, but also changed the activity levels of many genes. The results showed that only 30% of genes associated with aging are responsible for setting an animal’s internal timer, while the remainder reflect the body’s response to bacteria.
Scientists have been working on a list of genes that are associated with aging for decades. The genes in question are believed to be responsible for the aging of all animals, including humans, from worms, mice, and flies. We were surprised to learn that only 30% of these genes are directly involved in aging. These results may help researchers to better understand age-related diseases.
The results were a happy accident. Dr. Giniger and his team study the genetics behind aging of a fruit fly known as Drosophila. The team has shown that a hyperactive immunity system can play a crucial role in the damage to the brain caused by aging. This study, however, did not look at the possible role bacteria could play in this process.
Source:
https://phys.org/news/2021-06-scientists-rethink-genes-aging.html
