Researchers have gained more clarity on a special variant of the BPIFB4 gene associated with a longer life. This gene variant is more common in older people than in younger ones, which points to a protective effect. People with this variant appear to suffer less from heart problems and have a lower chance of death.
A major reason for this is that this gene variant reduces inflammation often associated with ageing. Chronic inflammation can damage the body and is a known factor in age-related diseases. Research in mice shows that this gene variant has positive effects in them as well, and the mechanism is strong enough to be mimicked by medication.
The new study shows how this gene works together with platelets, small cells in the blood that are important in stopping bleeding. These platelets display a protein, CD47, which appears to help determine how the BPIFB4 gene affects the immune system. This potentially offers new avenues for the development of treatments that can slow down the ageing process.
By understanding more about how this gene and its interaction with the immune system work, we are getting closer to methods for promoting healthy ageing. This kind of research helps to improve the quality of life in later life.
Source: Reason
