Although mutations have been identified that cause premature ageing in humans, it remains unclear exactly how we age and which genes are involved. A group of Japanese geneticists have discovered a new gene in mice called klotho that suppresses characteristics of ageing. Mice carrying a mutation in this gene develop diseases similar to ageing-related disorders in humans such as arteriosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), osteoporosis (brittle bones) and cataracts.The klotho protein is novel (bearing no resemblance to proteins encoded by premature ageing genes) and may be involved in cell signalling or remodelling of the extracellular matrix.
- George M. Martin
- I. Saira Mian
