Anti-Aging Klotho Gene Prevents Hypertension and Renal Damage

Filed in archive Gene Therapy on August 20, 2009

© Adrian Purser

Based on studies using rat models, scientists have found out that the anti-aging gene called klotho has positive effects on hypertension and renal damage. These results indicate that declining klotho protein levels that happens with age may be involved in the progression of hypertension and kidney damage, possibly explaining the prevalence of hypertension increases among the elderly.

Researchers used one injection of the klotho gene in hypertensive research models and were able to markedly reduce blood pressure by the second week. It continued to decline steadily for the length of the project - 12 weeks. The klotho gene was delivered with a safe viral vector that is currently used for gene therapy. The virus is already approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for use in humans.

"One single injection of the klotho gene can reduce hypertension for at least 12 weeks and possibly longer. Klotho is also available as a protein and, conceivably, we could ingest it as a powder much like we do with protein drinks," said Sun, M.D., Ph.D., a cardiovascular expert at the OU College of Medicine.

Researchers are currently exploring the potentials of klotho in reversing and preventing hypertension.

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