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Scientists target a master gene linked to cancer, arthritis and other age-related diseases

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April 10, 2000
Web posted at: 5:08 p.m. EDT (2108 GMT)

(CNN) -- Scientists said Monday they have discovered a master gene that appears to contribute to development of cancer, hardening of the arteries, arthritis, Alzheimer's disease and other diseases associated with aging.

Chemically targeting this single gene, known as "p21," could prevent or combat many diseases of aging, the scientists from the University of Illinois at Chicago reported in a professional journal, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

Paradoxically, p21 inhibits growth of about 40 additional genes and increases activity of about 50 others. This process is similar to what occurs with cancer, said Igor Roninson, senior author of the study and professor in the university's department of molecular genetics.

"The pattern was striking," he said. "Turning on this one gene brought about changes in numerous other genes that have already been implicated in aging and age-related diseases."

For example, p21 stimulated genes that produce the protein precursor of the beta-amyloid peptide. This peptide is the main component of plaques found in the brains of Alzheimer's patients.

Other p21-activated genes produce various proteins and enzymes that contribute to atherosclerosis and arthritis, Roninson said.

The research suggests that it may become possible to fight age-related diseases by targeting their common link -- the p21 gene, he said.

Still, genetic differences among individuals must also be taken into consideration.

"Everybody has variations in their own genome," said biochemist Stephen Warren of the medical school at Emory University in Atlanta. "That variation can lead to predispositions to certain kinds of diseases as well as protection."

The development of disease is also controlled to some extent by the environment.

Most scientists do not believe it possible to "cure" old age. They say too many processes underlie aging, including the workings of genes and the damage done by radiation and chemicals. But scientists also know that young cells of the body repair themselves better than old cells do, and understanding how this occurs could help people stay healthier as they age.

The Chicago study was supported by the National Cancer Institute and the National Institute for Dental and Craniofacial Research.

CNN Medical Correspondent Rhonda Rowland and Reuters contributed to this report.

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RELATED SITES:
Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences
National Council on the Aging Home Page
National Aging Information Center
The Interactive Aging Network
Aging Research Centre (ARC) Home Page


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