Scientists have discovered that a gene variant found in supercentenarians can restore heart function and slow aging symptoms in models of Progeria, a rare disease causing rapid aging in children.
November 3, 2025
Source:
ScienceDaily
Breakthrough in Genetic Research
Researchers have identified a gene variant found in people aged over 100 that can reverse heart aging and relieve symptoms of Hutchinson-Gilford Progeria Syndrome (HGPS), a rare disorder that causes children to experience rapid aging. The study, led by scientists at the University of Bristol and IRCCS MultiMedica, marks a significant step in age-related disease research (ScienceDaily).
HGPS is caused by a mutation in the LMNA gene, resulting in the buildup of a toxic protein, progerin, which damages heart and blood vessel cells. Most patients succumb to heart complications as teenagers.
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Source:
Wiley Online Library
How the Longevity Gene Works
Mechanism and Comparison to Existing Treatment
Gene therapy using the supercentenarian variant restored heart function in Progeria cell and animal models.
Unlike drugs such as lonafarnib, which focus on lowering progerin levels, this gene strengthens natural cell defenses without directly removing the toxic protein (Bioengineer.org).
This is the first evidence that a gene associated with extreme longevity can counteract rapid cardiovascular aging due to Progeria (Phys.org).
Therapeutic Potential
Future therapies may draw from centenarian biology for not just rare diseases, but general aging and age-related heart disease.
Researchers are considering delivery systems using protein or RNA based on these genetic findings (Nature).
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Source:
VitaDAO
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