Researchers from the University of Virginia analyzed data from more than 200,000 men and identified possible biological reasons why men, on average, live shorter lives than women. The results of the work were published in materials reported by Science Alert .
The study, which examined more than 216,000 biological samples, found that some blood cells lose the Y chromosome with age. It was long thought that this loss was a natural part of aging and had no significant health consequences. However, new evidence suggests that this mechanism may be linked to increased risk of a number of diseases.
In particular, men with a high degree of Y chromosome loss have an approximately six-fold increased risk of developing chronic kidney disease. Studies also indicate a connection between this phenomenon and neurodegenerative diseases: Y chromosome loss is observed significantly more often in patients with Alzheimer's disease. In addition, an increased risk of developing certain types of cancer has been recorded.
The researchers note that Y chromosome loss may not be a static but a dynamic process. For example, quitting smoking has been linked to a decrease in the frequency of this phenomenon in blood cells. This opens up opportunities for prevention and influencing risk factors through lifestyle changes.
Separately, researchers are studying potential approaches to reduce negative consequences, including the effects on so-called senescent or damaged cells. In animal experiments, the use of certain drugs has shown a positive effect on organ function, but these results require further clinical studies.
In the future, scientists suggest that the Y-chromosome loss index could become part of standard medical examinations, similar to cholesterol levels. This would allow for timely assessment of individual risks and the implementation of preventive measures.
