Does FVL have an effect on longevity?

BackgroundDifferent genetic and non-genetic factors have been reported to play a role in human longevity. Longevity has been associated with genetically favourable conditions which protected humans from cardiovascular disease (CVD). We have tried to confirm this statement in Turkish young and old aged groups.Aim of the studyWe aimed to investigate selected genetic polymorphisms (Factor V 1691 G-A, Prothrombin 20210 G-A and methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase 677 C-T) in CVD and controls to analyse their effects on longevity.Patients and methodsThe case control study included 362 persons aged 0–18 years and 209 persons aged 70 and above with diagnosis of thrombosis. Genetic polymorphisms were detected with Light Cycler Real Time PCR.ResultsThe results were compared to those of 332 and 266 healthy persons of same age groups who served as controls. MTHFR 677 C-T and PT 20210 G-A genotype frequencies in the old and young study groups were similar for all polymorphisms, but MTHFR 677T may have synergy with FVL (Factor V Leiden) imparting a risk of thromboembolism.ConclusionThis study concludes that common variations in genes associated with cardiovascular risk do not contribute significantly to longevity.