from BBC NEWS

Scientists probe anti-ageing gene

Scientists in the United States have discovered a gene that can keep mice alive for 30% longer than normal.
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Because humans have a very similar version of the gene, the hope is that it will show a way to improve our declining years.
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The gene studied in the new research is called Klotho, named after a minor Greek goddess who spins life’s thread.
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Klotho seems to delay many of the effects of old age, like the weakening of bones, clogging of the arteries and loss of muscle fitness.

This is important for those researching the causes of ageing, whose intention is not so much to prolong life as to improve the quality of our final years.

But there may be downsides with Klotho. The long-lived mice in the new experiments tend to be less fertile.

And the gene may also predispose people to diabetes.

The trick for researchers will be to find ways of getting the life-enhancing results of Klotho while avoiding the drawbacks. (duh!)

(via)