Genes and ageing
In 1998, Japanese researchers found a 'long-life' version of a gene that is present in most people aged 100 or over. Scientists are also looking at other animals, particularly the nematode worm, to try and find genes that affect life span. One version of a gene found in the nematode worm seems to double the worm's life span. Such genes probably help the body resist or repair cell damage more efficiently.
