A group of Boston University researchers believe they’ve found a way to determine if you will pass the century mark. What makes the claim truly interesting is the astounding accuracy they claim to have achieved. RedOrbit shares a bit about the test:
Their research, published in PLoS ONE, focused on identifying common genetic variations thought to be associated with healthy aging in over 800 centenarians and 914 healthy subjects of varying ages. The results pointed to some 281 different genetic markers which could be grouped in 26 different combinations or ‘genetic signatures.’
The presence of these signatures, the researchers say, could then be used to predict with 60 – 85 percent accuracy who would live to see the ripe old age 100.
The accurate identification of genetic markers tied to extreme longevity would be an amazing feat. What makes it even more fascinating is that the older the subject the more accurate the test’s predictions are.
The Boston U. research team has identified and analyzed 281 genetic varieties within the centenarian group. This could have massive repercussions for those studying age-related conditions and their treatments. The more we understand about the genetic underpinnings of age-related diseases, the better chance we have of developing functional treatments.
Not only that, but the insights gained by this research have the potential to contribute to other efforts. The approach of looking for groupings of genetic markers is one that, if proved accurate, is applicable to a wide variety of health care research.
In the meantime, healthy living is the key. Chances are that the test won’t be widely available until it has undergone a lot more industry scrutiny, so play it safe.
Image by King of the Ants (Carl Glover), used under its Creative Commons license.
