Snappy newsletters. Simple Facebook sharing. Spirited comments. Sweet features are waiting… GET THEM NOW!

Scientists Tinker With Biological Clock

New discovery on engineered liver genes could slow aging

By Peter Fearon,  Newser Staff

Posted Aug 11, 2008 2:07 AM CDT

(Newser) – US researchers believe they have found a way to turn back the clock on the processes which make organs age. Scientists engineered genetic alterations to make the livers of older mice function like younger mice, the BBC reports. The discovery may lead to new treatments for Alzheimer's and other diseases associated with aging.

The research focused on the way organ cells recycle proteins. The cells become less efficient with age, causing a protein "'logjam." The latest results "show it's possible to correct this protein logjam, perhaps helping us to enjoy healthier lives well into old age," said one of the researchers.

New research suggests it may be possible to turn back the clock on the aging processes of cells, opening the way to new treatments for a host of diseases of the elderly.
New research suggests it may be possible to turn back the clock on the aging processes of cells, opening the way to new treatments for a host of diseases of the elderly.   (KRT Photos)
New research suggests it may be possible to turn back the clock on the aging processes of cells, opening the way to new treatments for a host of diseases associated with aging.
New research suggests it may be possible to turn back the clock on the aging processes of cells, opening the way to new treatments for a host of diseases associated with aging.   (KRT Photos)
New research suggests it may be possible to turn back the clock on the aging processes of cells, opening the way to new treatments for a host of diseases.
New research suggests it may be possible to turn back the clock on the aging processes of cells, opening the way to new treatments for a host of diseases.   (KRT Photos)
« Prev« Prev | Next »Next » Slideshow
To report an error on this story, notify our editors.
A snapshot of the day's best news stories.
 
COMMENTS
Be the first to comment on this story.

More Newser Stories

Scientists: We Can Destroy 'Aging Cells'

Fountain of Youth Drug Found on Easter Island

We're Most Miserable in Middle Age

To Battle Age, Exercise

Protein Discovery Could Spur 'Gold Rush' for New Drugs


NEWS FROM OUR PARTNERS
Other Sites We Like:   24/7 Wall St.   |   Betty Confidential   |   BuzzFeed   |   Cracked   |   Fark   |   Timelines   |   The Frisky   |   Geek Sugar   |   NewsOne