The scholars of the Edinburgh University in Scotland showed that life expectancy depends on two proteins of blood. Medicines aimed at these compounds are able to slow the aging. This is reported in the article published in the journal Nature Aging.
Specialists analyzed the results of six major genetic studies dedicated to human aging. Among 857 compounds, scientists have found two, which have had a significant negative impact on various age indicators. People who inherited DNA contributing to the elevated level of proteins had a shorter life expectancy than the rest.
One of the proteins is called apolipoprotein (a) (LPA), produced in the liver and, as it is believed, plays an important role in blood coagulation. The high level of LPA is associated with a high risk of atherosclerosis – a condition in which the arteries are clogged with fat compounds. The second protein, the adhesion molecule of vascular cells 1 (VCAM1), is located on the surface of the endothelial cells – a single-cellular layer that lins blood vessels.
Researchers say that drugs used to treat diseases through the reduction of LPA and VCAM1 levels can improve the quality and lifespan.