Scientists have discovered a gene that could potentially reverse the effects of aging on the heart.
The longevity-associated variant of the BPIFB4 gene was found to protect against cardiovascular damage and keep the heart in good shape for a longer period of time in people who live well into their 90s and beyond.
The researchers have successfully introduced the mutated gene into mice, rewinding markers of biological heart aging by more than 10 human years. It also showed that introducing the gene to human heart cells in a laboratory setting improved their performance in building new blood vessels and maintaining them.
This finding has opened the possibility of developing therapies for individuals who are experiencing heart issues and whose parents have not lived to a grand old age.
The researchers are also exploring the possibility of using the BPIFB4 protein as a treatment, rather than the gene that generates it. These findings provide a promising avenue for anti-aging treatments and cardiovascular disease prevention, potentially changing the way we approach aging in the future.