Good basic science in this paper, relating biochemistry, evolution and mechanisms for longevity: "The
amino acids sequences of the
mitochondrial DNA-coded
peptides of
placental mammals evolved at different rates in different branches of the mammalian
phylogenetic tree. ...
Mitochondria generate
reactive oxygen species (ROS) that
appear to constrain the life span of many species. Therefore, I tested the hypothesis that the evolution of mammalian longevity drives the accelerated evolution of mitochondrial DNA-coded peptides. ... It is suggested that, in mammals,
adaptive selection of mutations that decrease the rate of production of reactive oxygen species, [directly or indirectly], increases longevity." Longevity need not be selected for directly.
Reliability theory suggests that gains in health and function during youth selected for in this manner will incidentally lead to increased longevity - less
oxidative damage leads to a longer life. You can
learn more about evolutionary theories of aging and longevity at Fight Aging!
View the Article Under Discussion:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.mad.2006.06.001
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http://www.longevitymeme.org/news/