The genetic code of the centenarians, a new potential treatment against cardiovascular diseases

Some people live much longer than average, partly because of their DNA. A study published in the European Heart Journal, shows that it might be possible to reproduce this genetic gift even for those who lack it. The path is now open to an innovative therapeutic model that can prevent and fight cardiovascular disease through true rejuvenation of the blood vessels.

The study, conducted by the I.R.C.C.S. Neuromed, the I.R.C.C.S. Multimedica and the Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry at the Salerno Medical School University in Salerno, with the support of the Cariplo Foundation and the Italian Ministry of Health, are focusing on the gene that codes for the BPIFB4 protein. In the past, the same research group had identified a variant of this gene called LAV ("variant badociated with longevity") that is prevalent in people over 100 years of age. Now, through a viral vector, researchers have inserted the LAV-BPIFB4 gene into the DNA of animal models particularly sensitive to atherosclerosis and, consequently, to cardiovascular disease.

"The results – says Annibale Puca, coordinator of a research team at the University of Salerno and IRCC MultiMedica – have been extremely encouraging.We have observed an improvement in the functionality of the project. endothelium (the inner surface of the blood vessels), a reduction of plaques in the arteries and a decrease in the inflammatory state ".

In other words, the inclusion of the "centennial gene" in animal models has caused a real rejuvenation of the cardiovascular system. The same positive effect was also obtained in the laboratory, this time not by inserting genes, but by releasing the LAV-BPIFB4 protein into the human blood vessels.

The researchers added to these experimental data further studies conducted on patient groups. First, they found that a higher level of BPIFB4 protein in the blood was badociated with healthier blood vessels. In addition, carriers of the genetic variant of LAV had higher protein levels.

Carmine Vecchione, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Salerno, says: "This study opens the door to the possibility of therapeutic solutions based on the LAV-BPIFB4 protein.Of course, much research will still be needed, but we think By administering the protein to patients, it is possible to slow down the cardiovascular lesions due to age.In other words, even if a person does not have these particular genetic characteristics, we could be in able to offer the same level of protection. "

Provided by
Istituto Neurologico Mediterraneo Neuromed I.R.C.C.S.