Transposable elements, also known as transposons or “jumping genes,” are DNA sequences within the genome that have the ability to move to different locations, potentially disrupting other genes. These elements are believed to be remnants of ancient viral infections and may play a role in evolutionary changes. While transposons are typically suppressed in youth, this suppression weakens with age due to dysregulation in epigenetic systems. Researchers are now exploring ways to regulate transposon activity in older individuals to mitigate age-related disease and decline.
A recent study focused on long interspersed element 1 (LINE-1), a family of transposons that make up a significant portion of human DNA. The research identified two regulatory genes, IL16 and STARD5, which when overexpressed, increased the activity of LINE-1. These findings offer new insights into the mechanisms that govern transposon expression and provide potential targets for age-related interventions. Both IL16 and STARD5 have intriguing connections to aging, suggesting a possible synergy between them in activating transposons.
IL16, known for its role in regulating immune responses, is associated with age-related changes and increased levels with aging. STARD5, implicated in cholesterol transport and ER stress response, may also play a role in age-related alterations. The link between jumping gene activity and immune responses underscores the evolutionary origins of transposons from ancient viruses. Understanding these regulators of transposon activity could offer new avenues for aging research and treatment.
Link: https://gero.usc.edu/2024/06/13/study-regulators-of-jumping-genes-could-be-new-targets-for-aging-research-and-treatment/
