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A research team from University of California San Diego may have found a way to delay human aging by developed an oscillating genetic “clock”. This was tested on yeast cells.
In principle, cells age as a result of two processes – on the one hand, the breakdown of mitochondria and on the other hand the dismantling of the DNA stability. Both ultimately lead to cell death. However, this could be significantly slowed down with the help of the new method.
Switching between aging processes
In general, cells have gene regulatory circuits. First, computer models were used to figure out how the circuitry responsible for cell aging worked. This was then genetically “rewired” by the team.
In this way, the cells can periodically switch between the two aging states. They don’t go straight to death, so to speak, but jump back and forth between the two processes. As a result, the aging process takes much longer.
The lifespan of the reprogrammed yeast cells was increased by an average 82 percent be extended. According to the researchers, this is the most significant life extension to date through genetic or chemical intervention. The team is now also testing the method on human cells.
This is not only a promising way to control cellular aging, but also to treat age-related diseases. The study was im Journal Science published.
