Longevity and healthy aging genetic profile in nonagenarian from basque country.

In the past few years, a variety of important genes have been associated with different metabolic pathways of aging processes, cognition and longevity in model organisms. Candidate genes involved in DNA repair processes and involved in signalling pathways of insulin growth factors have emerged as key factors in controlling the physiology behind these processes. However, these findings in model organisms are difficult to apply to human cases. This is mainly due to low reproducibility of tested genes in humans. Thus, the aim of this project is to find those factors associated with genetic susceptibility related to longevity and neuroprotection in nonagenarians with healthy and compromised mental state. Whole genome screening in centenarians has allowed determining the relationship of certain genes associated with longevity. Therefore, our goal is to establish a relationship between genes related to longevity and mild phenotypic effect yet crucial in processes such as: healthy physical aging, physical performance, cognitive function and bone aging effects due to common underlying complex conditions. For the purpose, we will select SNPs related to neuroprotective processes and longevity. Additionally, we will select tagSNPs that allow the study of candidate genes haplotype. The technology that will be employed involves the use of Taqman array.