By Rick Nauert PhD Senior News Editor Reviewed by John M. Grohol, Psy.D. on January 4, 2013

New research suggests a genetic variant that accompanies active personality traits in humans also appears to be associated with living a longer life.

In a series of mouse studies, UC Irvine researchers and others discovered that an offshoot of a dopamine-receptor gene called the DRD4 7R allele appears in significantly higher rates in people more than 90 years old and is linked to life-span increases in mouse studies.

Robert Moyzis, Ph.D., professor of biological chemistry at UC Irvine, andNora Volkow, M.D., a psychiatrist who conducts research at the Brookhaven National Laboratory, led the research effort. Findings are online in The Journal of Neuroscience.

Researchers say the variant gene is part of the dopamine system, a network which facilitates the transmission of signals among neurons and plays a major role in the brain network responsible for attention and reward-driven learning.

Investigators say the DRD4 7R allele moderates dopamine signaling, which enhances individuals reactivity to their environment.

People who carry this variant gene, Moyzis said, seem to be more motivated to pursue social, intellectual and physical activities. The variant is also linked to attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and addictive and risky behaviors.

While the genetic variant may not directly influence longevity, Moyzis said, it is associated with personality traits that have been shown to be important for living a longer, healthier life.

Its been well documented that the more youre involved with social and physical activities, the more likely youll live longer. It could be as simple as that.

Numerous studies including a number from the 90+ Study have confirmed that being active is important for successful aging, and it may slow the advance of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimers.

Go here to see the original:
Gene Variant Tied to Active, Longer Life

Comments are closed.