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The 90 plus: longevity and COVID-19 survival.
Mayana Zatz1,2, Monize V R Silva3, Mateus V de Castro3
1Human Genome and Stem Cell Research Center, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil. mayazatz@usp.br.
Molecular Psychiatry
|February 9, 2022
Summary
Global populations are aging, driving interest in healthy aging and longevity research. This review highlights genetic studies in elderly cohorts, identifying novel variants in diverse populations and exploring resistance to age-related diseases and pathogens.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology and Genetics
- Population Health
Background:
- Global populations are experiencing an aging demographic shift.
- Understanding the mechanisms of healthy aging is crucial for healthcare and longevity.
- Genetic factors play a significant role in health span and resistance to age-related diseases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review genetic association studies (GWAS) and next-generation sequencing (NGS) in elderly cohorts.
- To present updated hypotheses on the aging process and factors influencing healthy aging.
- To highlight the importance of studying diverse, admixed populations and their resistance to late-onset disorders and pathogens.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of genetic association studies (GWAS) and next-generation sequencing (NGS) in elderly populations.
- Analysis of genetic data from a cohort of over 1000 elderly Brazilians.
- Characterization of nonagenarians and centenarians, including those with COVID-19 recovery or asymptomatic cases.
Main Results:
- Identification of approximately 2 million novel genetic variants in the Brazilian elderly cohort.
- Demonstration of the value of studying highly admixed populations of non-European ancestry.
- Insights into the resilience of centenarians against pathogens like COVID-19.
Conclusions:
- Studying diverse elderly populations, particularly those with admixed ancestry, is vital for understanding aging and health.
- Novel genetic variants contribute to variations in health span and disease resistance.
- Centenarians offer unique insights into biological mechanisms of resistance to pathogens and aging.
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