British researchers have discovered the gene variants, which can predict the pace of ageing in the human body, Press TV reported.
While seniors are more prone to certain illnesses such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and heart diseases, studies show some individuals may become affected at younger ages.
Telomere, also known as the biological clock, is located at the terminal part of the chromosome of every cell and has long been considered to carry the genetic code linked to the ageing process.
Telomeres become shorter every time a cell divides. Individuals with shorter telomeres are believed to be more prone to age-related illnesses.
According to a study published in Nature Genetics, carrying a number of variants located near a gene called TERC is linked to an extra three or four years of "biological ageing."
"What our study suggests is that some people are genetically programmed to age at a faster rate," said lead researcher Professor Tim Spector, adding that at-risk individuals age faster and develop more age-related diseases when exposed to proven 'bad' environments such as smoking, obesity or lack of exercise.
Scientists hope their findings will lead to the development of strategies to identify individuals at a higher risk of age-related illnesses particularly heart disease.
British scientists discover ageing gene variants
