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Our generation is probably the one that will live the longest. Life expectancy is increasing all the time, and for a long time it has been attributed to improvements in healthcare, nutrition, and the reduction of war and poverty. However, recent studies could indicate a new path that would also explain why some people live so many years and others do not. Japanese scientists managed last year to discover some peculiarities and qualities of a protein that, it seems, has a great impact on a long life.
What protein is it
Researchers from Osaka University in Japan have identified what the HKDC1 protein can do. This protein could be key to understanding longevity and cellular aging, they reported in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences last year.
A few previous studies have shown that HKDC1 plays a crucial role in the maintenance of mitochondria and lysosomes. These are two important cellular structures for aging and learning more about them could help us find the treatment for premature death.
HKDC1 is essential for mitophagy to remove damaged mitochondria, and is a mediator of between the mitochondria and lysosome, which is essential for lysosomal repair. Its role in maintaining the stability of these organelles counteracts cellular senescence, making HKDC1 a potential therapeutic target for aging-related diseases.
How does this protein work?
The main role that has been associated with the HKDC1 protein is to circumvent cellular aging. In addition, it is associated with health and longevity in people who are already elderly.
On the other hand, it helps to maintain the function and good condition of mitochondria and lysosomes. These are two cellular organelles that have, as we have mentioned previously, great and important implications for health. It could also be an essential tool in the prevention of age-related diseases.
While it is true that these are small steps and findings regarding longevity, they could be of great help in future studies. In fact, they are already beginning to be useful in understanding the role that this protein plays in aging and its implications can begin to be sought for the development of various anti-aging therapies. Some studies are already underway to find solutions to premature deaths