Genes influence how organisms develop, function and inherit characteristics. They contain instructions for producing proteins and regulating biological processes, with genetic variations contributing to differences between individuals.
Some genes work together to determine specific traits, while others can influence characteristics independently. Changes in DNA, known as mutations, can also affect how genes function and may contribute to inherited conditions and diseases.
Genetic research is also examining the role genes play in ageing, including how cells respond to DNA damage over time.
Genflow Biosciences is developing gene therapies targeting ageing and age-related diseases, with research focused on the SIRT6 gene.
SIRT6 plays a role in DNA repair and maintaining genomic stability. DNA damage accumulates as organisms age, making the mechanisms involved in repairing that damage an area of interest for longevity research.
Genflow has identified a variant of SIRT6 associated with centenarians, people who live to 100 years or older. The company is investigating the potential of this variant to improve DNA repair and influence the biological ageing process.
Its approach involves using gene therapy to introduce additional copies of the SIRT6 variant, with the aim of addressing age-related changes. The research is based on the potential for modifying specific biological mechanisms associated with ageing.
The development of gene therapies targeting ageing remains an area of scientific investigation, with further research needed to establish their safety, effectiveness and potential applications.
Genflow Biosciences plc (LON:GENF, OTCQB:GENFF, FRA:WQ5) is a UK-based biotech firm with R&D facilities in Belgium focused on developing novel therapeutic approaches that potentially halt or slow the aging process in humans and dogs supporting longer, healthier lives
