Nature Aging: Blood protein may be key to healthy longevity

Scientists have discovered two blood proteins that can affect our longevity and health, research shows

Developing drugs that target these proteins could be one way to slow the aging process, according to the largest genetic study of aging

As we age, our bodies begin to decline in adulthood, which leads to age-related illness and death

Many complex and interrelated factors determine the rate at which we age and die, including genetics, life>

Some people are born with higher or lower levels of specific proteins because they have inherited the DNA from their parents

University of Edinburgh researchers have combined the results of six large genetic studies of human ageing - each containing genetic information from hundreds of thousands of people,

Of the 857 proteins studied, the researchers found that two proteins had significant negative effects on different markers of aging

Those who inherited the DNA that causes elevated levels of these proteins were more vulnerable, had worse self-assessed health, and were less likely to live exceptionally long than those who didn't

The first protein, called apolipoprotein(a) (LPA), is produced in the liver and is thought to play a role in the clotting process

The second protein, Vascular Cell Adhesion Molecule 1 (VCAM1), is found primarily on the surface of vascular endothelial cells, the monolayer of cells that line blood vessels

When the body signals that an infection is detected, levels of VCAM1 increase, and VCAM1 then allows immune cells to cross the endothelial layer, as seen in those born with low levels of these proteins

Drugs that treat the disease by lowering LPA and VCAM1 levels could improve quality of life and prolong life, the researchers said

One such example is a clinical trial testing a drug that lowers LPA as a way to reduce the risk of heart disease

There have been no clinical trials involving VCAM1, but studies in mice have shown how antibodies that reduce levels of this protein can improve cognitive performance in old age

The findings were published in the journal Nature Aging

Dr Paul Timmers, lead researcher in the Human Genetics Group at the University of Edinburgh's Medical Research Council, said: "Identification of these two key proteins contributes to extending healthy lifespan

Professor Jim Wilson, Chair of Human Genetics at the Usher Institute at the University of Edinburgh, said: "This study demonstrates the power of modern genetics to identify two potential targets for future drugs to extend lifespan

article title

Mendelian randomization of genetically independent aging phenotypes identifies LPA and VCAM1 as biological targets for human aging