DECRYPTION – This genetic anomaly affects 40% of people over 70 and increases the risk of cardiovascular pathologies.
The Y chromosome, present only in humans, can disappear with age. If it may come as a surprise, the fact has actually been known for a long time. This genetic anomaly, which does not affect all men or all cells in the body, had long been considered a simple marker of aging.
Many studies have nevertheless shown in recent years that men who lose their Y chromosome have a shorter life expectancy and an increased risk of cancer, cirrhosis and Alzheimer’s disease. Simple association or real causal link? So far the question has remained unresolved.
A genetic desert
A study published in the journal Science provides the beginning of an answer by elegantly demonstrating how this chromosomal loss deteriorates the functioning of the heart. An important discovery that could open new perspectives for research on age-related pathologies in men.
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Among the authors of this work is Lars Forsberg, researcher at…
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