Scientists have discovered a particular “super gene” that may hold the key to humans living longer lives.
Researchers from the University of Copenhagen say the protein OSER1 was found to have a substantial influence on longevity.
Senior study author Professor Lene Juel Rasmussen said the research showed the protein could extend the duration of life through better treatment for age-related diseases.
Because the protein is present in multiple animals, the researchers believe the new results will also apply to humans.
“It is a novel pro-longevity factor, and it is a protein that exists in various animals, such as fruit flies, nematodes, silkworms, and in humans,” Professor Rasmussen said.
“We identified a protein commonly present in different animal models and humans. We screened the proteins and linked the data from the animals to the human cohort also used in the study.
“If the gene only exists in animal models, it can be hard to translate to human health, which is why we, in the beginning, screened the potential longevity proteins that exist in many organisms, including humans. “
The researchers hope that the identification and characterisation of OSER1 will provide new drug targets for age-related diseases such as metabolic diseases, cardiovascular and neuro degenerative diseases.
The study “FOXO-regulated OSER1 reduces oxidative stress and extends lifespan in multiple species” has been published in Nature Communications.
