Newly Discovered Gene Could Unlock Secrets to Longevity

Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have identified a protein, OSER1, that significantly influences longevity across various species, including humans, SciTech Daily reported yesterday.

This breakthrough, led by Professor Lene Juel Rasmussen and first author Zhiquan Li, suggests potential new treatments for age-related diseases. The study found OSER1 among proteins regulated by the FOXO transcription factor, a known longevity hub. By manipulating the expression of ten genes linked to longevity, the team focused on OSER1, which showed the most substantial impact.

The presence of OSER1 in multiple animal models enhances its relevance to human health, paving the way for interventions and drug discoveries aimed at combating premature aging and age-associated diseases. Despite the limited existing literature on OSER1, this study marks a significant step in understanding the mechanisms of aging. Researchers aim to further explore OSER1’s role in specific age-related diseases, ultimately contributing to improved human longevity and health outcomes.