Key points from article :
Repetitive elements (REs) in our DNA increase with aging and react to known longevity-promoting interventions
95% of our genome is non-coding.
But “junk DNA” carries out multiple important functions.
Usually, most REs are inactive - wound into a tight structure called chromatin - so cannot be transcribed.
Volume of RE transcriptions seems to rise with age, probably due to chromatin instability.
REs have been linked to other hallmarks of aging, such as oxidative stress and cellular senescence.
So may play a causative role.
Increase in RE transcripts with age, was largely attenuated by CR in mice.
High-fat diet significantly promotes RE transcription.
Sedentary older (human) adults show a much larger volume of RE expressions than young adults.
Effect seemed to be attenuated by regular exercise.
Research by Colorado State University published in bioRxiv.
LFC NOTE: unless RE transcription is promoted/inhibited as part of the experiment I'm struggling to see how this determines cause of effect.
