Certain Genes and Exercise Lengthen Lifespan, Study Says

A study shows that a gene in the brain's dopamine system and exercise can prolong one's lifespan. The finding was issued online in Oncotarget Aging.

Science Daily reports that the study was performed by scholars from the University at Buffalo Research Institute on Addictions and led by Panayotis (Peter) K. Thanos, a senior research scientist at RIA. The study involved a mice model. The researchers examined the genes in dopamine to evaluate their influence on the behavior and the lifespan of the mice. They found out that the dopamine D2 receptor gene (D2R) induce lifespan, locomotor activity and body weight, but it must be incorporated into a healthy environment, which includes mostly exercises, cognitive stimulation, social interaction and sensory.

Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that can be found in humans and animals. It transmits signals to the brain and other essential areas. It is produced in some areas of the brain that include the ventral tegmental area and the substantia organ.

Thanos said that doing exercise is a significant component of an enhanced environment. Its advantages have been shown to be a strong mediator of brain function and behavior.

The results showed that the mice in the healthy environment lived anyplace from 16 to 22 percent longer. This depends on the level of D2R expression. Thanos said that the results deliver the first evidence of D2R gene-environment interaction playing an important role in longevity and aging.

So, how much should an adult exercise every day? The Department of Health and Human Services advises that you must have at least 75 minutes a week of robust aerobic activity or 150 minutes a week of average aerobic activity. For strength training, you must a least do it twice a week with no particular time for each training session. The average aerobic exercises include swimming, brisk walking and mowing the lawn. On the other hand, the robust aerobic activities include aerobic dancing and running. Strength training includes activities such as heavy gardening, rock climbing or using weight machines.