Inherited variation in the form of single nucleotide polymorphisms are know to contribute to exceptional longevity. However, it is unknown what effect, if any, SNPs in or near microRNA coding regions have on health and long life. Once a comprehensive list of miRNAs related to aging is complete, a comparison with known SNPs will help uncover the answer. Further analysis of altered miRNA function due to SNPs could lead to mechanisms of exceptional health and longevity.
