Scientists probe anti-ageing gene

[Sean]

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/science/nature/4186324.stm

Scientists in the United States have discovered a gene that can keep mice alive for 30% longer than normal. They say the gene has a key role to play in many of the processes related to ageing. Because humans have a very similar version of the gene, the hope is that it will show a way to improve our declining years. The gene studied in the new research is called Klotho, named after a minor Greek goddess who spins life's thread. The gene certainly seems to do that. Mice - and people - with defective forms of the gene appear to age prematurely. Now researchers have shown that by boosting the activity of the gene, they can extend the natural lives of male mice from two to three years. The effect is not quite so strong in female mice.