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Review
. 1997 Oct 17;278(5337):407-11.
doi: 10.1126/science.278.5337.407.

Genetics of aging

Affiliations
Review

Genetics of aging

C E Finch et al. Science. .

Abstract

The role of genetics in determining life-span is complex and paradoxical. Although the heritability of life-span is relatively minor, some genetic variants significantly modify senescence of mammals and invertebrates, with both positive and negative impacts on age-related disorders and life-spans. In certain examples, the gene variants alter metabolic pathways, which could thereby mediate interactions with nutritional and other environmental factors that influence life-span. Given the relatively minor effect and variable penetrance of genetic risk factors that appear to affect survival and health at advanced ages, life-style and other environmental influences may profoundly modify outcomes of aging.

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