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Intermediate alleles of HTT: A new pathway in longevity
Assunta Ingannato1, Silvia Bagnoli1, Valentina Bessi1
1Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, University of Florence, Florence, Italy.
Journal of the Neurological Sciences
|May 17, 2022
Summary
The Huntingtin (HTT) gene
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Longevity Research
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Centenarians exemplify successful aging, often escaping age-related diseases.
- Genetic factors, including the Huntingtin (HTT) gene, are linked to exceptional longevity.
- HTT Intermediate Alleles (IAs) have shown potential neuroprotective effects and links to brain development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of HTT Intermediate Alleles (IAs) in extreme longevity.
- To examine the association between HTT IAs and cognitive decline in centenarians.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of HTT IA distribution in Italian Centenarians (n=143).
- Comparison with pathological controls with cognitive decline (n=232) and healthy controls (n=104).
Main Results:
- A statistically significant higher frequency of HTT IAs was observed in Centenarians compared to pathological controls (11.2% vs 5.4%, p=0.031).
- This finding suggests a potential association between HTT IAs and exceptional lifespan.
Conclusions:
- The Huntingtin (HTT) gene, specifically Intermediate Alleles (IAs), may play a role in human exceptional longevity.
- HTT IAs might confer a neuroprotective advantage, contributing to healthy aging and brain development.
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