Want to predict your death time? Here is good news for you. Scientists have discovered two gene variants that reduce life expectancy. These genes are inherited from parents and these genes can reduce up to three years of life.
About two-third of the human population possess at least one of two gene variants, according to a study published in the Journal Nature Communications.
Researchers at the University of Edinburgh does this study. They analyzed the genetic material of 152,000 volunteers, using a computer program that scan DNA affecting the lifespan of a person.
“We looked in particular at two regions already known to be associated with killer diseases,” Dr. Jim Wilson, who works at the university’s Usher Institute of Population Health Sciences and Informatics, infomed.
They located two clusters, one of the two clusters is connected to Alzheimer’s disease and high cholesterol and another is associated with lung problems.
About 3 in every 1,000 people inherit both of the variants, which cuts three years off their lives. Those with only one of the genes will lose a year, according to the study.
Yet, they stressed that a person’s life isn’t just decided by their DNA. The researchers are also hoping to discover genes that boost longevity.
“Lifestyle has the greatest impact on how long we live and that is under our control,” Dr. Peter Joshi, who also works at the Usher Institute, told the Irish Times.
"Age is an issue of mind over matter. If you don't mind , it doesn't matter."
