In search of the gene that leads to long life - AJW by The Asahi Shimbun

In search of the gene that leads to long life - AJW by The Asahi Shimbun

 Sirtuin gene research emphasizes gene activity in the aging process. Sirtuin are a class of proteins that improve intracellular metabolic efficiency in the various organs of living creatures while also working to enhance resistance to stress.

Additionally, sirtuin are not the only genes thought to be related to aging and longevity. For example, the protein known as mTOR and its gene appear to be involved with a mechanism that works to prevent aging by restricting caloric intake. Results of an experiment reported a mouse made to excessively express the klotho gene, which was discovered by Japanese researchers, lived 30 percent longer than normal.

Something considered to have a high probability of being a harmful substance that promotes cellular aging is "active oxygen." Active oxygen is produced by mitochondria (tiny membrane-enclosed organs) within the cells when they use oxygen to produce energy for cell activity. Other causes of production include external sources such as stresses in daily life and ultraviolet rays. Active oxygen is believed to possess toxicity that is damaging to genes and cells and leads to a deterioration in cell function. It is said that the balance between active oxygen occurrence and the functions designed to defend against it is what determines the speed of the aging process.