Source: San Francisco Chronicle
Date: September 7, 2006
Summary:
Researchers have uncovered a fundamental new link between stem cells and aging: a genetic system in the body that seems to fight cancer but also regulates the restorative cells that keep aging at bay.
Three research teams, each looking at a different organ system, found evidence that a tumor-suppressing gene called p16 also regulates the powers of stem cells to renew themselves.
But it's a balancing act.
When the body beefs up its cancer-fighting defenses, the researchers found a shift away from the gene's ability to restore cells of the blood, pancreas and brain, and aging results.
Stem cells are best known for their all-important starting role in embryonic development. They also serve throughout life as agents of tissue regeneration -- templates that can be copied into fresh new cells as needed.
That ability of stem cells to proliferate indefinitely also can give rise to cancer.
Commentary: If researchers can figure out how to shut off the part of the p16 gene that inhibits it's ability to restore cells, maybe new treatments can be developed for age-related diseases and health conditions such as cancer and Alzheimer's Disease.
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