The secret to longevity has been revealed in the mouse

Subterranean naked mole rats can live up to 37 years in the laboratory. This extraordinary lifespan has become a focal point for scientific research exploring the secrets of longevity. A new study, published in the journal Science and led by Tongji University School of Medicine, focused on the organism's immune protein, cGAS.

Normally, the cGAS protein recognizes damaged or foreign DNA and activates the immune system. However, in human and mouse cells, it can also accelerate aging by slowing down DNA repair processes. In naked mole rats, the protein performs the opposite role: it doesn't dissociate from the site of a DNA break and supports the repair process.

The secret behind this behavior lies in a small but powerful change of four amino acids in the cGAS protein. These changes prevent the protein from being destroyed by the cell, allowing cGAS to remain at the site of damage, making the work of repair proteins easier.

The study also showed that cGAS forms a stronger bond with another protein called FANCI. FANCI directs RAD50, a protein involved in repair. This collaboration allows DNA damage to be repaired more quickly and accurately.

One striking experimental result was obtained by transferring the cGAS gene from the naked mole rat into older mice. The transferred mice showed fewer wrinkles, more hair, and a significant reduction in signs of aging. Fruit flies treated with the same gene lived about 10 days longer.

Scientists emphasize that this genetic advantage emerged through an evolutionary process. Subterranean life, low oxygen levels, and a slow metabolism have, over time, led to an evolutionary strategy that prioritizes cellular repair over rapid reproduction. Similar trends are also observed in bats and elephants.

However, the applicability of the research to humans is cautious, as cGAS plays a crucial role not only in DNA repair but also in immune responses. Artificially enhancing this mechanism could lead to undesirable consequences, such as potential mutation risks and tumor development.

The next step will be to test whether these genetic changes can safely produce similar effects in human cells.