Researchers identify SIRT6 gene variants linked to healthier aging and reduced cellular damage

Scientists have identified rare variants of the SIRT6 gene found more often in people who live to 100 years or older that appear to help protect cells from aging. The findings offer new insights into the biology of longevity and could help guide future research on therapies for age-related diseases.

The study focused on two naturally occurring SIRT6 gene variants found in Ashkenazi Jewish centenarians. Researchers introduced these variants into human stem cells and observed how they affected cellular aging.

They found that the variants increased the amount of SIRT6 protein in cells and improved the cells’ ability to resist stress. Cells carrying the centenarian variants aged more slowly, maintained stronger DNA repair systems, and showed lower levels of harmful genetic activity often associated with aging.

One of the most significant findings was that the variants reduced the accumulation of senescent cells, older cells that stop dividing but remain in the body. These cells release inflammatory signals that can damage nearby tissues and contribute to many age-related diseases.

The researchers also explored potential therapeutic approaches. They found that delivering the centenarian version of SIRT6 using gene therapy or activating SIRT6 with fucoidan, a natural compound derived from the seaweed Fucus vesiculosus, partially reduced several molecular signs of aging in cells from people with progeria, a rare condition that causes accelerated aging.

While these results are encouraging, the study suggests that understanding why centenarians age more slowly may be more valuable than simply trying to copy their genetics. Many aging researchers believe that directly targeting senescent cells through treatments known as senotherapies, which remove these cells or block their harmful effects, could produce greater health benefits than therapies designed to mimic naturally occurring longevity gene variants.

The findings improve scientists’ understanding of the biological processes that contribute to healthy aging and provide new clues for developing therapies aimed at extending healthspan, the years of life spent in good health.