Genetic variants associated with longevity in long-living Indians

Area of Science:

• Genetics
• Gerontology
• Population Health

Background:

• Genetic factors significantly influence human lifespan and healthy aging.
• Identifying specific genetic variants associated with longevity is crucial for understanding the biological basis of extended lifespans.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify genetic variants linked to longevity within the Indian population.
• To compare genetic profiles of long-living individuals (85+ years) with younger controls (18-49 years).

Main Methods:

• Utilized data from GenomegaDB, a genetic database of Indians.
• Employed an in-house custom genotyping chip for variant analysis.
• Performed logistic regression analysis to identify significant genetic associations with longevity (p < 5×10⁻⁴).

Main Results:

• Identified 9 genetic variants significantly associated with longevity in the Indian population.
• Found protective alleles for slower heart rate, reduced osteoporosis risk, and decreased schizophrenia/anxiety risk more frequent in long-living individuals.
• Observed lower frequencies of alleles linked to increased atrial fibrillation and biliary disorder risks in long-living individuals.
• Confirmed the significance of the FOXO3A gene variant (rs2802292 G allele) in this population, previously associated with longevity in other cohorts.

Conclusions:

• The study reveals a genetic basis for healthy aging and longevity in the Indian population.
• Genes involved in oxidative stress, apoptosis, DNA repair, and metabolism are critical pathways influencing lifespan.
• Genetic profiling can contribute to understanding and potentially promoting healthy longevity.