New Study Reveals Nine Genetic Variants Linked to Longevity in Indian Population

A team from MapmyGenome found nine genetic variants linked to longevity in the Indian population. One variant, the G allele of rs2802292 from the FOXO3A gene, is also present in other countries. The study, published in NPJ Aging, was led by Sandhya Kiran Pemmasani, a principal biostatistician at MapmyGenome.

Genetic influences on longevity range from 25% to 40%. India has the second-largest population of older individuals, aged 60 and above. The study compared long-lived individuals, aged 85 and older, with younger controls, aged 18 to 49. Data was taken from GenomegaDB, a genetic database of Indians.

Researchers used a custom genotyping chip developed by MapmyGenome. This chip includes over 10,000 probes linked to various health conditions such as cancer, heart disease, and neurological disorders. The researchers defined cases as those over 85 years old and controls as individuals aged 18 to 49.

The study identified several alleles in long-lived individuals. Specific alleles linked to lower heart rates and reduced risks of osteoporosis and schizophrenia were more common among long-lived individuals. Conversely, alleles associated with higher risks of atrial fibrillation and biliary disorders were less frequent in this group.

What genetic factors are associated with longevity in the Indian population according to Sandhya Kiran Pemmasani’s research?

Interview with Sandhya Kiran Pemmasani: Unveiling the Genetic Secrets of Longevity in India

NewsDirectory3: Thank you for joining us, Sandhya. Your recent study published in NPJ Aging highlights significant findings regarding longevity in the Indian population. Can you elaborate on the motivation behind this research?

Sandhya Kiran Pemmasani: Thank you for having me. The motivation stemmed from the need to understand the genetic factors contributing to longevity, especially in a diverse country like India, which has the second-largest population of older adults. By comparing long-lived individuals with younger controls, we aimed to uncover specific genetic variants that may promote healthy aging.

NewsDirectory3: Your team identified nine genetic variants associated with longevity. Among them, the G allele of rs2802292 from the FOXO3A gene stood out. Why is this particular variant significant?

Sandhya Kiran Pemmasani: The G allele of rs2802292 is intriguing because it has been linked to longevity in other populations, such as Japanese and French centenarians. Our study reinforces its relevance in the Indian context. It suggests that despite cultural and environmental differences, certain genetic traits related to longevity may be conserved across diverse populations.

NewsDirectory3: It’s fascinating to see this connection. How did your research methodology contribute to these findings?

Sandhya Kiran Pemmasani: We utilized a custom genotyping chip developed by MapmyGenome that contains over 10,000 probes linked to various health conditions. This allowed us to analyze a comprehensive genetic profile of individuals over 85 years old compared to a younger control group aged 18 to 49. The precision of our methodology facilitated the identification of specific alleles that promote longevity and reduced risks for certain health conditions.

NewsDirectory3: You mentioned the presence of alleles linked to lower heart rates and reduced risks of osteoporosis and schizophrenia among long-lived individuals. What implications do these findings have for public health in India?

Sandhya Kiran Pemmasani: This research could have profound implications for public health by highlighting genetic predispositions that could guide preventive measures and health interventions. Understanding these genetic markers can lead to personalized health strategies, ultimately extending the healthy lifespan of our older population.

NewsDirectory3: The impact of genetics on longevity is estimated to be between 25% to 40%. How do you foresee this research influencing future genetic studies and healthcare practices in India?

Sandhya Kiran Pemmasani: Our findings encourage further research on genetic influences on health and aging, particularly in diverse Indian subpopulations. We hope this study will inspire more comprehensive genetic databases that encompass various demographics and health conditions, ultimately paving the way for personalized medicine and preventative health strategies in the Indian healthcare landscape.

NewsDirectory3: Lastly, Anuradha Acharya, your CEO, mentioned that this research aligns with MapmyGenome’s mission to transform lives through genetics. How do you see this playing out in practical terms for individuals?

Sandhya Kiran Pemmasani: We aim to empower individuals with knowledge about their genetic make-up. By providing actionable insights, we hope people can make informed lifestyle choices and health decisions. Our ultimate goal is to promote healthier living, backed by scientific research, and foster a culture of preventive health in India.

NewsDirectory3: Thank you, Sandhya, for sharing these insights. Your research opens up new avenues in understanding longevity within the Indian population.

The G allele of rs2802292 from the FOXO3A gene was notably significant, previously associated with longevity in populations like Japanese and French centenarians. The analysis revealed that genes related to oxidative stress, apoptosis, DNA damage repair, and metabolism significantly impact longevity.

Anuradha Acharya, founder and CEO of MapmyGenome, stated, “Our mission is to transform lives through genetics. This research reinforces our commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and empowering individuals with actionable insights for a healthier future.”