NW China to establish gene pool for longevity study
(Xinhua)
Updated: 2004-06-27 10:22

Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region in northwest China will set up a gene pool to further study the relationship between genes and people's long life, according to a local research institute.

As a part of two programs under the 863 Plan, a hi-tech research and development program of China, the plan had been made according to a contract signed between the Ministry of Science and Technology and the Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences.

This is the first time for the autonomous region to get 863 programs on animalcule research, according to an animalcule institute under the academy.

Based on a long-term study, the institute now has obtained blood samples from 149 elderly persons aged over 90, and 33 aged over 100, of Uygur nationality in Hotan Prefecture, which is noted for its numerous gods of longevity.

"We will continue to collect samples and try to discover the relationship between long life and living environment and habits via investigations on epidemiology and enginery of heart blood vessels," said Shi Yuhu, a researcher with the animalcule institute.

Statistics showed there were 1,451 persons aged at and over 100 in Xinjiang, making up 8.1 percent of the total in the country, and ranking the fourth only behind Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Guangdong and Sichuan provinces.

Close

Today's Top News     Top China News
Fire caused by lightning rages in northern forests         Three Turks Held in Iraq; Blast Kills 19         Pakistani PM resigns, dissolves cabinet         Dozens of drug dealers executed in China         Chinese bank to sell stake to HSBC         US arms sales to Taiwan sparks tension	Urgent need for relief       4 accused Chinese officials await verdicts       Chinese bank to sell stake to HSBC       Condoms to be placed in Chinese hotels       Illegal land development zones cut       SMEs board performing well