Summary
Researchers from the Wellcome Sanger Institute have found that as men age, the risk of passing harmful genetic mutations through sperm increases. The study used advanced DNA sequencing to analyze sperm from men aged 24 to 75, revealing that these mutations become more common with age.
Key Facts
- The study was conducted by the Wellcome Sanger Institute and used sperm samples from the TwinsUK cohort.
- Researchers found that harmful genetic mutations in sperm become more common as men age.
- Approximately 1 in 50 sperm from men in their early 30s carry harmful mutations, which increases to 1 in 20 by age 60.
- Advanced DNA sequencing technologies, like NanoSeq, were used for precise mutation detection.
- The study found that some mutations give sperm-producing cells a growth advantage, making these mutations more common in older men.
- 40 genes were identified where mutations are favored, with 13 previously known to be involved in this process.
- These mutations are linked to serious conditions like neurodevelopmental disorders and cancer-predisposition syndromes.
- Some harmful mutations could affect successful fertilization or lead to pregnancy issues.
