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**Summary:**

Scientists have discovered a key mechanism behind the remarkable longevity of naked mole rats. A study reveals that a molecule called cGAS, which normally hinders DNA repair in humans and mice, *enhances* DNA repair in naked mole rats due to four key amino acid substitutions. This modification allows cGAS to remain bound to damaged DNA longer, facilitating the recruitment of repair proteins and speeding up homologous recombination. This discovery suggests a novel approach to anti-aging therapies by manipulating the interaction of cGAS with DNA to improve DNA repair without compromising the immune system.

**News Article:**

**The Hindu: Science For All**

**Naked Mole Rat’s Secret to Long Life Decoded: Could Hold Key to Human Anti-Aging**

**October 13, 2025 06:00 am IST**

*By Science Desk*

Chennai: The astonishing lifespan of the naked mole rat, a hairless rodent from East Africa known to live up to 10 times longer than other mammals of similar size, is one step closer to being understood. A groundbreaking study published in *Science* reveals a unique adaptation in the animal’s DNA repair mechanism that could offer insights into new anti-aging therapies for humans.

Researchers from Tongji University investigated a molecule called cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS), which in humans and mice, normally triggers immune responses but also suppresses a key DNA repair system. The study found that in naked mole rats, cGAS *enhances* DNA repair instead.

The key difference lies in four amino acid substitutions in the cGAS structure of naked mole rats. These changes allow the molecule to bind to damaged DNA for a longer period, facilitating the recruitment of repair proteins and accelerating a process called homologous recombination. This significantly improves the efficiency of DNA repair, reducing cellular aging and promoting longevity in the rodents.

“Our work provides a molecular basis for how DNA repair is activated to contribute to the exceptional longevity during evolution in naked mole-rats,” the researchers stated in their published paper.

The implications of this discovery are far-reaching. While further research is needed, experts suggest that manipulating the interaction of cGAS with DNA in other species, including humans, could pave the way for age-related research and innovative therapies. Specifically, targeted medicines designed to adjust how cGAS functions could help maintain genome integrity without negatively impacting the immune system.

This discovery highlights that evolution can lead to longevity not only by improving repair mechanisms but also by adapting harmful regulators to make them beneficial. The naked mole rat, once again, offers a fascinating glimpse into the potential for unlocking the secrets of aging.

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