Perls says the key to successfully predicting long life was the sophisticated statistical analysis of many different gene variations that each played some role. "And that's what this method does - it captures the complexity of the puzzle and (1)_________________________________ to produce exceptional longevity." Perls and his colleagues publish their study in the online edition of the journal Science.
The Boston University researcher says this kind of analysis could play a role, not just in predicting who will live longest, (2)_________________________________.
In an interview via Skype, Tom Perls said the same technique used to predict long life may also be used to predict whether a person might eventually develop certain diseases. He gave the example of Alzheimer's Disease as one in which genetics plays a role.
"And we think that this methodology can very much be used to capture the bunch of genes that are playing an important role in one's susceptibility to that disease," he said. "And the same can be true, perhaps, for looking at adult-onset diabetes, or cardiovascular disease, or stroke. Again, where I think there is at least a moderate impact from genetic variation." As the cost of the needed genetic tests continues to decline, he predicts (3)_________________________________ they may not develop until later in life, and recommend ways to avoid them.
