"Over the last few years, our knowledge of the molecular mechanisms underlying human aging has benefited from studies of premature-aging syndromes, such as
Hutchinson-Gilford Progeria syndrome, that cause the early development of characteristics normally associated with advanced age," he added.
Older dads also have a higher risk of fathering children with rare mutations that cause dwarfism or a premature aging disease called
Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome.
Progeria, also known as
Hutchinson-Gilford Progeria Syndrome (HGPS), is a rare and fatal genetic condition characterised by accelerated ageing in children.
While investigators continue to debate exactly how well this so-called Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome mirrors normal aging, many are convinced that the newly discovered mutation could provide insight into the process.
Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome, also known simply as progeria--Greek for early aging--affects only an estimated 1 in 4 million children.
(NASDAQ: EIGR) has received minutes from a pre-investigational new drug (pre-IND) meeting with the Division of Gastroenterology and Inborn Errors Products of the US Food and Drug Administration for lonafarnib in the treatment of Hutchinson-Gilford Progeria Syndrome (HGPS or Progeria), the company said.
Progeria, also known as Hutchinson-Gilford Progeria Syndrome, is a rare and rapidly fatal genetic condition of accelerated aging in children caused by a point mutation in the lamin A gene yielding the farnesylated aberrant protein, progerin.