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Published on: September 29, 2011
A genome-wide association study of aging
Stefan Walter1, Gil Atzmon, Ellen W Demerath
1Department of Public Health, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
Neurobiology of Aging
|July 26, 2011
Summary
Genetic variations influence human longevity and healthy aging. This study identified specific genes linked to mortality and disease-free survival, highlighting the role of neurological processes in aging well.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Gerontology
- Genomics
Background:
- Human longevity and healthy aging exhibit moderate heritability, ranging from 20% to 50%.
- Understanding the genetic underpinnings of aging is crucial for developing interventions to promote healthspan.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a meta-analysis of genome-wide association studies to identify genetic factors influencing all-cause mortality and survival free of major disease.
- To explore the genetic architecture of human longevity and healthy aging.
Main Methods:
- Meta-analysis of genome-wide association studies from nine cohorts within the Cohorts for Heart and Aging Research in Genomic Epidemiology Consortium.
- Analysis of two outcomes: all-cause mortality and survival free of major disease or death.
Main Results:
- No single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) reached genome-wide significance for either outcome.
- Identified 14 independent SNPs associated with mortality risk and 8 SNPs with event-free survival (p < 10(-5)).
- These SNPs are located near genes involved in neurological processes, neural development, autophagy, and disease risk (e.g., cancer, Alzheimer's disease).
Conclusions:
- Genetic variations in genes associated with neurological processes may play a significant role in regulating aging free of major disease.
- These findings suggest a link between neurological function and the achievement of longevity.
- Pathway and network analyses revealed considerable overlap between the identified genetic factors and aging-related traits.
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