Aging is a natural part of life, but recent studies suggest that certain lifestyle actions can help slow down the aging process. Researchers from Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine have found that long genes in the body, which are more susceptible to damage, may be a main cause of aging. These long genes are also believed to play a role in the development of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s. Understanding the mechanisms of aging could help identify new ways to monitor and improve health. Lifestyle actions such as cutting calories, following a fasting-mimicking diet, and increasing physical activity have been shown to potentially slow down aging. Longer genes that become less active with age may be the central cause of aging in the body, according to the study.
The new study introduces a term called gene length-dependent transcription decline (GLTD), which describes a negative correlation between gene length and expression in various cell types, species, and diseases. Most aspects of biological aging are related to gene length, according to the researchers. The report also suggests that long genes that become less active with age may also contribute to the development of Alzheimer’s disease and other neurodegenerative diseases. The regulation of genes is a central process in life, and the study explains how the activity of long genes changes with aging. The findings provide a measurable phenomenon that connects existing knowledge about aging.
The connection between gene length and Alzheimer’s disease was made in a study that looked at how long genes play a role in the development of neurodegenerative diseases. Dr. Sourena Soheili-Nezhad observed the link between gene length in aging and Alzheimer’s disease, leading to further investigation into the importance of gene length in neurodegenerative diseases. By understanding the impact of gene length, researchers can design experiments and interventions to increase the function of long genes and potentially prevent or delay the development of these diseases. The findings offer a new perspective on the aging process and provide a way for doctors to discuss aging with patients.
Geriatric psychiatrist Dr. David Merrill explains that longer, more complex genes are susceptible to damage as we age, leading to issues with transcription and protein synthesis. This damage can come from processes like oxidative stress, which can be reduced through healthy eating habits, regular exercise, intermittent fasting, and limiting behaviors like smoking and drinking alcohol. Understanding the pathways that lead to aging and neurodegenerative disorders is crucial as the population ages and the burden of these diseases increases. Further research will be needed to determine if gene length-dependent transcription decline is the main mechanism of aging and whether it can be prevented. Scientists and doctors continue to explore ways to slow down the aging process and improve overall health and longevity for the aging population.
