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In a new analysis, researchers explore whether people live longer because they avoid disease or because they possess some anti-aging secret/.../


Living to 100: New Genes for Longevity Found

by Rachael Rettner, Senior Writer   |   December 18, 2015 01:03pm ET
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A piece of birthday cake, with a "100" candle on top.
Credit: Birthday cake photo via Shutterstock
Several new genes linked to an exceptionally long life have been discovered, according to a new study that examined the genomes of people living into their 100s, known as centenarians.
Using a new method, the researchers found four genes linked with a very long life: A gene called ABO, which is involved in determining blood type; a gene called CDKN2B, which regulates cell division; a gene called APOE, which is linked with Alzheimer's disease; and a gene called SH2B3, which was previously found to extend life in fruit flies.
The researchers hope that future studies will uncover even more genes linked with longevity, and figure out how these genes may affect the aging process.