The Longevity Gene - What Is It?

A recent study in the published in PLoS Computational Biology examined the genetic make up of long-lived peoples. To conduct the study, researchers enrolled over 300 Ashkenazi Jews who were age 95 or higher. As a control group, 408 unrelated Ashkenazi Jews were enrolled. This population was used because of their closely related genetic make-up.

Researchers took DNA samples from all the participants. The 95 year olds had more genes related to longevity - specifically the good version of gene CETP was found in more of the long-lived participants (CETP counteracts a disease causing gene Lp(a)).

This study is really just an initial look into genetics and longevity in this population. Right now this are is very little understood. What is known is that some people have helpful versions of genes that seem to assist in preventing illness.

Overall, researchers believe the genetics accounts for less than 35% of overall health - the rest is behavior and exposure to harmful things.

More on Genetics and Longevity