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A situation involving the effective treatment of progeria through the genes of people who survived past 110 years has come to light.

A collaborative research group from the University of Bristol in the United Kingdom and Italy’s MultiMedica studied the “longevity genes” of people who have lived beyond 110 years and managed to partially reverse aging in a progeria patient. The results were released on the 16th in *Signal Transduction and Targeted Therapy*, a companion journal to the global academic publication *Nature*.

◇110-Year-Old Longevity Gene ‘Corrects’ Progeria

Progeria is a rare genetic condition in which the aging process occurs at a pace that is decades quicker than usual. The cells and tissues become abnormally stiff very quickly, leading to visible signs of aging in the body and organs. Common features include deep wrinkles, baldness, and heart-related issues. This disorder affects roughly 1 in 20 million individuals.

Progeria results from a defect in the LMNA gene, which is responsible for generating proteins that help maintain the cell’s nucleus. A mutation in this gene leads to the production of a harmful protein known as “progerin.” The buildup of progerin causes the nucleus to change shape and speeds up the aging process of cells—this is why children with progeria show signs of early aging.

The scientific group discovered the longevity gene “LAV-BPIFB4” by examining the genetic makeup of supercentenarians who remained healthy beyond 110 years. This gene contributes to maintaining strong blood vessels and a healthy heart as individuals age.

In trials, the researchers triggered progeria in laboratory mice and administered the longevity gene. The stiffened heart muscles of the animals became softer, improving their ability to move and jump. Cardiac fibrosis was reduced, and new tiny blood vessels developed. Markers of aging proteins also declined considerably.

Human testing was conducted, including three patients with progeria and five of their healthy parents. Following the administration of the longevity gene, the patients experienced significant decreases in cellular damage and aging indicators. Nevertheless, toxic protein levels stayed largely the same. The researchers stated, “The cells became more capable of fighting toxicity and repairing themselves,” indicating that the longevity gene improves cellular recovery and resilience. “The key to living longer was found in the genes of those who remained healthy until age 110,” they added.