TZAP protein affects telomere length

Scientists have identified one of the main factors of aging

Scientists have announced that they have discovered a protein that plays a key role in cellular aging, writes ZN.UA . EurekAlert reports on the findings of the researchers! (TSRI scientists discover master regulator of cellular aging). Researchers have discovered the protein TZAP, which binds the ends of chromosomes and determines the length of telomeres, DNA fragments that protect the ends of chromosomes. The length of telomeres plays a key role in the body, as they determine the lifespan of cells. According to one of the authors of Lazzerini Denchi's work, "this protein sets an upper limit on the length of telomeres. This allows the cells to multiply, but not too much."

(Article by Li et al. TZAP: A telomere-associated protein involved in telomere length control is published in the journal Science – VM.)

Telomeres perform a protective function. From infancy, their sizes gradually decrease: on average, twice by adulthood and four times by the elderly. This is considered one of the causes of aging of the human body. A reduction in the rate of telomere degradation is thus directly related to an increase in life expectancy. Earlier it was reported that scientists have found a protein, the introduction of which will help stop aging. Tests on mice have confirmed that the introduction of a "rejuvenating" protein into the body significantly improves the physical condition of animals. Also, elderly rodents had sharply reduced chances of dying from heart disease. This discovery gives people hope that they will be able to live longer.

Portal "Eternal youth" http://vechnayamolodost.ru  13.01.2017