An Epigenetic Signature of Species Maximum Life Span
Research has shown that differences in species life span are influenced by genetic factors, but it is fascinating to discover that epigenetic signatures can also play a role in determining the maximum life span of mammals. Epigenetic marks on the genome influence gene expression, which in turn affects protein production. This indicates that differences in the expression of specific genes contribute significantly to species longevity, despite similarities in protein structure and function across different species.
A study analyzing 15,000 samples from 348 mammalian species identified DNA methylation predictors of maximum life span, gestation time, and age at sexual maturity. The results suggest a potential longevity advantage for females over males in certain mammalian species. Interestingly, epigenetic predictions of maximum life span remain consistent across different factors like caloric restriction and genetic disruptions, highlighting the intrinsic nature of this signature as a species-specific property.
The study also found no correlation between cancer mortality rates and epigenetic estimates of life-history traits. It is important to note that the epigenetic signature of maximum life span is not influenced by individual variations within a species, emphasizing its distinct nature from mortality risk-related signatures.
