Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 17, 2026
10:39
A Suppressor Screen for the Characterization of Genetic Links Regulating Chronological Lifespan in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Published on: September 17, 2020
Decoding human longevity: Genetic and molecular insights from accelerated to successful ageing
Monica Cattaneo1, Sara Carnevali1, Paolo Madeddu2
1Cardiovascular Department, IRCCS MultiMedica, Milan 20138, Italy.
Ageing Research Reviews
|May 15, 2026
Summary
Genetic factors significantly influence human aging, from accelerated aging syndromes to exceptional longevity. Understanding these genetic variants and molecular pathways offers insights into aging resilience and interventions.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Genetics
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Aging is a heterogeneous process influenced by genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors.
- A spectrum exists from progeroid syndromes to centenarians, highlighting genetic influences on aging trajectories.
- Deleterious and protective genetic variants modulate conserved biological pathways, impacting functional decline and longevity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically review genetic factors and molecular mechanisms regulating human aging across the spectrum of aging.
- To synthesize evidence from human genetic data, mechanistic studies, and translational research.
- To evaluate the role of emerging pathways and epigenetic clocks in understanding aging.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative narrative review approach.
- Integration of human genetic data, mechanistic studies, and translational evidence.
- Analysis of models for accelerated and successful aging.
Main Results:
- Genetic models of accelerated aging reveal mechanisms of premature deterioration.
- Studies of long-lived individuals identify variants linked to resilience and homeostasis.
- Emerging pathways like hypoxic adaptation, autophagy, and metabolic reprogramming are implicated in successful aging.
Conclusions:
- Genetic factors, alongside epigenetic and environmental influences, shape diverse aging phenotypes.
- Understanding genetic dichotomies and molecular pathways is crucial for aging research.
- Epigenetic clocks offer quantitative insights but require careful interpretation regarding context and limitations.
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