Ageing mechanism linked to X-chromosome

February 16, 2004 | Source: Daily Times

University of Leuven scientists narrowed the search for a gene linked to aging on Friday and said it is probably located on the X chromosome, implying that longevity may be a trait inherited from the mother.

The research was based on measurements of the telomere length of white blood cell DNA (elderly people with longer telomeres live five to six years longer than people with shorter ones).

If the identify of the gene is confirmed, the researchers believe slight changes in it could affect telomere length and longevity.