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Understanding a key enzyme could change the way we age

Scientists get closer to the fountain of youth


Tuesday, September 23, 2014, 12:15 PM - Scientists in California may have found what Ponce de Leon never could—the fountain of youth.

Not a physical location but rather a switch in our own cells. Specifically, the on/off switch that allows cells to keep dividing and generating.

In our bodies cells constantly divide and multiply but they are not capable of doing this indefinitely. At the end of each chromosome a specific area known as a telomere shortens with each division. Some cells produce an enzyme called telomerase which lengthens the telomeres, essentially prolonging the cell's lifespan.


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A new study published in Genes and Development is showing a better understanding of this enzyme. According to the report, telomerase is turned off in some cells and disassembles, no longer available to lengthen the telomeres. But by manipulating the enzyme, this off switch can be altered so that the enzymes stick around for longer and keep the cells "young."

The studies were conducted in yeast, a single-celled organism that often provides valuable insight about chromosomes, before moving on to study the human equivalent.

Healthy aging month

September is healthy aging month and while manipulating cells may be out of the question for most, there are other things you can do to "age well"

  • Eating fruits and vegetables is one of the most important factors. They contain antioxidants which slow down the aging process by battling the damage done to the body.
  • Whole grains are always a better choice because of the natural chemicals within them that can decrease the risk for diabetes, heart diseas and some cancers.
  • Fatty fishes like salmons contain salmon which protects against heart attacks and strokes.

With files from CNN

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