Why women live longer?
Friday August 3rd, 2012
Women tend to live longer than men - and it may be in the genes they give to their sons, researchers revealed yesterday.
A
new study links to gender difference in ageing to mitochondrial DNA, a
form of DNA inherited only from the mother.
Researchers say they have found numerous mutations in this DNA that affect only men.
The findings have been reported in the journal Current Biology.
Researcher Dr David Clancy, of Lancaster University, UK, said: “Together, our research shows that the mitochondria are hotspots for mutations affecting male health.
"What we seek to do now is investigate the genetic mechanisms that males might arm themselves with to nullify the effects of these harmful mutations and remain healthy.”
He said the problem "is much broader in its effects on male life history than previously envisaged, resulting in the build-up of mutations that cause males to age faster, and live shorter lives than females."
Fellow researcher Dr Damian Dowling, of Monash University, Australia, said: "Intriguingly, these same mutations have no effects on patterns of ageing in females. They only affect males."
He explained: "If a mitochondrial mutation occurs that harms fathers, but has no effect on mothers, this mutation will slip through the gaze of natural selection, unnoticed.
"Over thousands of generations, many such mutations have accumulated that harm only males, while leaving females unscathed."
Mitochondria, Maternal Inheritance and Male Aging. Dr Damian Dowling, Florencia Camus, Dr David Clancy. Current Biology August 2012
Tags: Australia | General Health | Genetics | Men’s Health | UK News | Women’s Health & Gynaecology
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