Genetic trade-off between youth and longevity uncovered by researchers
Researchers have identified the vgll3 gene in killifish as a driver of early-life growth and reproduction that simultaneously increases cancer risk and accelerates aging. This finding provides experimental support for the evolutionary theory of antagonistic pleiotropy.
Why it matters
Understanding the genetic trade-offs between development and aging could lead to new medical interventions that decouple early-life health from age-related disease.
image: The killifish is an emerging model for investigating the genetic architecture of aging and age-related pathologies, which often exhibit sex-specific patterns between females (left) and males (right).
The article reports on scientific research findings without political or social framing.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in