“Genetic DNA” is constant, but “Gene Expression” can be changed
Even though brain cells and skin cells store copies of the same “genetic DNA,” why do the functions of cells differ, such as in the brain or skin?
The reason is that when cells produce proteins based on genetic DNA, the regulation of which genes to use and how much protein to produce from each gene (termed “gene expression”) is determined.
There are approximately 20,000 types of genes, and a full set of copies is stored in every cell. However, only a few thousand types of proteins, about 1/5 to 1/10 of them, are produced within the cell.
The repertoire of selected genes, about 1/5 to 1/10, varies for each cell.
The difference in the repertoire of selected genes becomes the difference in the function of cells, serving as the decisive factor in determining whether a cell becomes a brain cell or a skin cell.
Regulating “Gene Expression” to Combat Diseases
Unlike genes that remain constant throughout life, it is possible to regulate “gene expression.”
Conversely, when gene expression becomes abnormal for some reason, it can lead to various diseases and health issues.
If the cause of the dysfunction in gene expression can be identified, it becomes possible to restore it to normal or compensate for the deficient function by enhancing the function of other genes, thus combating diseases.
We are researching the regulation of “gene expression” at our Ginza Research Institute
Our company is diligently engaged in fundamental research with the aim of developing and refining new methods to extend healthy lifespan.
For example, within cells extracted from the body, we analyze which types of genes are expressed in how much quantity in which cells and examine their repertoires.
This research includes not only normal cells but also weakened cells.
Furthermore, we analyze which of the thousands of proteins included in the repertoire are influencing each other, and as a result of the mutual influence of these proteins, what happens to the cells. Since this research involves examining the quantity and timing of expression of approximately 20,000 genes, as well as their harmony with the expression of other genes, it is indeed a long and challenging journey.
However, from such fundamental research, it becomes possible, for example, to reveal the gene expression regulated by β-Nicotinamide Mononucleotide (NMN) and refine health promotion methods based on scientific evidence through NMN for the first time.