American scientists have conducted significant research in the quest to understand the secrets of longevity. According to ScienceDaily, researchers successfully transferred a gene associated with longevity found in naked mole-rats to ordinary mice.
Naked mole-rats are unique in the animal kingdom. They can live up to 41 years, which is nearly ten times longer than other rodents. Scientists have sought to understand the biological mechanism behind this phenomenon.
During the study, experts discovered that one of the secrets to longevity is linked to a specific gene responsible for producing high-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid. Known scientifically as HMW-HA, this substance plays a crucial role in the body regarding tissue health, inflammatory processes, and protection against tumors.
Biology and medicine professor Vera Gorbunova stated that this research demonstrates that unique mechanisms developed in long-lived mammals can be transferred to other species.
“Our study demonstrates that unique longevity mechanisms that evolved in long-lived mammal species can be exported to improve the lifespans of others,” she said.
According to reports, the lifespan of the genetically modified mice increased by approximately 4.4 percent. While this number may not seem large at first glance, it is considered a significant achievement in science, as it concerns not just living longer, but living healthier.
A number of positive changes were observed in the experimental animals. Specifically, they showed increased protection against tumors, lower levels of inflammation in tissues, and better gut immunity. This suggests that the gene may influence several processes related to aging in the body.
Professor Andrei Seluanov believes that this discovery could pave the way for future research in humans. Scientists have already identified molecules that slow down the degradation of hyaluronic acid and are currently testing them.
“We have already identified molecules that slow down the degradation of hyaluronic acid and are testing them,” said Seluanov.
Of course, this discovery does not mean that humans will start living healthy lives for over 100 years tomorrow. In science, such work requires a long time, multi-stage trials, and safety checks. However, the results indicate a promising direction for understanding and influencing the aging process.
Scientists hope that over time, these biological mechanisms will help combat age-related diseases in humans. In short, another door has been opened in the search for the secret of longevity. Now the main question is: what opportunities for human health lie behind this door?
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