Human Longevity Studies

Since 1997, Einstein investigators have examined the genetic secrets of “superagers,” men and women who live past 95 without significant medical problems. Specifically, researchers examine the genetic advantages that protect superagers from significant age-related diseases and allow them to live in good health well into old age.

• Longevity is highly correlated with high HDL (“good”) cholesterol, which is associated with the CETP gene.
• The CETP gene is also associated with the prevention of cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s disease.
• Centenarians have functionally significant mutations in insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and IGF-1 receptor, which result in less functional growth hormones.
• The hypothalamus, which regulates hormone production, remains functional in centenarians. 

The LonGenity study began in 2007, enrolling men and women aged 65 and older—both those who are the offspring of superagers and those whose parents do not have exceptional longevity.

• Offspring of centenarians live longer and healthier than their peers.
• Lower levels of IGF-1 are associated with longer survival and lower incidence of age-related diseases, such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, and cognitive decline.
• Less inflammation in the hypothalamus is associated with better cognition. 

The LifeLong Study seeks to understand how genetic factors related to longevity affect healthy aging throughout life with the goal of preventing age-related diseases. Younger individuals, age 20-40 years, offer comparison between youthful and older biology. The study launched in 2019.