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By studying the aging processes of mammals, from humans to mice to giraffes, scientists are on their way to unraveling the mystery of human lifespan. Recent research has discovered that the longer a species lives, the slower the rate at which mutations occur.
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The lifespan of mammals in the animal kingdom varies widely, from South Asian rats, which live just six months, to whales, which can live up to 200 years. Why do humans die at an average of 80 years of age, while other mammals live much shorter or longer? made by British scientists research The great mystery may finally be solved.
THE RATE OF DNA ERRORS IS CRITICAL
Research by scientists from the Wellcome Sanger Institute in Cambridge suggests that humans and animals die after accumulating similar numbers of genetic mutations, and that the rate of DNA errors plays a critical role in determining the lifespan of any species.
Because smaller animals burn energy faster and need faster cell turnover, the scientists said.your size’ He thought it was the key point in his life span. But new research reveals that the rate of genetic damage may be key to survival.
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THE SECRET OF LONG LIVING ANIMALS
Studies have shown that long-lived animals successfully slow down their DNA mutation rate, regardless of their size. This may explain why a mole has the same life expectancy (24-25 years) as the much larger giraffe.
WHAT IS THE MUTATION RATE IN HUMANS?
When the researchers checked for mutation rates, they discovered that moles mutate 93 and giraffes 99 per year.
Mice undergo 796 mutations per year and live an average of 3.7 years. Researchers dealing with the human condition average lifespan 83.6 years mutation rates of people with 47 found that.
LIFESPAN IS INVERSE PROPORTIONAL TO SOMATIC MUTATION
Genetic changes are known as ‘somatic mutations’. These changes occur in all cells and are largely harmless, but some can cause cancer and disrupt functioning.
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The research team analyzed genetic errors in stem cells from the intestines of 16 mammalian species and found that the longer a species’ lifespan, the slower the rate at which mutations occur.
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Dr Alex Cagan, the author of the study published in The Nature, stated that it was surprising to find similar genetic changes in animals as different as mice and tigers. “The most exciting aspect of the study has to be finding that lifespan is inversely proportional to the somatic mutation rate.” said.
OPENING THE DOOR TO UNDERSTANDING THE TIMING OF DEATH
Scientists believe the study opens the door to understanding the aging process and the timing of death.
Dr Inigo Martincorena, senior author of the study, said:Aging is a complex process, the result of multiple molecular damage to our cells and tissues. Thanks to recent advances in DNA sequencing technologies, we can finally investigate the roles that somatic mutations play in aging and multiple diseases.” said.
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