In a first, US scientists have found a genetic mutation that has the potential to protect humans against diabetes as well as help us live 10 years longer and happier.A genetically and culturally isolated group of "Amish" people in Berne, Indiana, US, were found to be the sole carriers of the gene mutation. Amish people with the mutation lived up to an average 85 years of age, significantly over 10 years longer than their predicted average lifespan of 71. They had a 10 percent longer telomere -- a protective cap at the end of our chromosomes that is a biological marker of ageing -- as well as a significantly decreased risk of diabetes and lower fasting insulin levels, compared to those in the same family without the mutation.
"This is the only kindred on the planet that has this mutation. It's a 'private mutation'," said lead author, a cardiologist and Professor at Northwestern…
