Pioneering geneticist Mayana Zatz unveils insights on muscular dystrophy and longevity research

São Paulo, Brazil - The "Innovators & Ideas: Research Leader" section of Genomic Psychiatry features an illuminating Genomic Press Interview with Professor Mayana Zatz, a leading figure in genetics research at the University of São Paulo. The interview delves into Zatz's pioneering work on neuromuscular disorders, aging, and genomics, offering valuable insights into the cutting-edge research shaping our understanding of genetic influences on health and longevity.

Professor Zatz, who has been at the forefront of genetics research for over four decades, shares her journey from a curious high school student fascinated by genetics to a renowned scientist leading groundbreaking studies. Her current research focuses on two critical questions: identifying protective variants that mitigate the impact of lethal mutations in severe conditions with mild phenotypes, and understanding the factors contributing to the health and longevity of centenarians.

"Understanding the underlying 'protective' mechanisms could open new avenues for treatment," explains Professor Zatz, discussing her work on Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Her team is investigating rare patients with milder clinical courses despite carrying the same pathogenic mutations as more severely affected individuals.

The Genomic Press Interview also highlights Zatz's recent focus on studying healthy centenarians. "We are trying to understand the role of protective aging variants and whether their product could help promote healthy aging for people who were not born with these protective variants," she states. This research could potentially lead to breakthroughs in promoting longevity and health in aging populations.

Beyond her primary research, Professor Zatz is involved in cutting-edge projects on xenotransplantation and using the Zika virus as an oncolytic therapy against brain tumors. Her multifaceted approach to genetic research demonstrates the broad impact of genomics on various aspects of human health.

The interview also touches on Professor Zatz's personal philosophy and the challenges facing scientific research in Brazil. She emphasizes the importance of resilience, creativity, and maintaining close connections with patients to drive meaningful research.

"Professor Zatz's work exemplifies the transformative potential of genetic research in addressing some of humanity's most pressing health challenges," says Dr. Julio Licinio, Editor-in-Chief of Genomic Psychiatry. "Her insights into protective genetic mechanisms and longevity factors are not only advancing our understanding of these conditions but also paving the way for innovative therapeutic approaches."

The Genomic Press Interview with Professor Mayana Zatz offers a fascinating glimpse into the life and work of a scientist at the forefront of genetic research. It underscores the potential of genomics to revolutionize our approach to treating neuromuscular disorders and promoting healthy aging.

The full Genomic Press Interview "Mayana Zatz: Two critical questions take center stage – Which variants mitigate the impact of lethal mutations in severe conditions with mild phenotype? What factors contribute to the health and longevity of centenarians?" was published on 21 February 2024 and is available online in the Innovators & Ideas: Research Leader section of Genomic Psychiatry: https://gp.genomicpress.com/aop/

About Genomic Psychiatry: Genomic Psychiatry (ISSN: 2997-2388) is a peer-reviewed journal published by Genomic Press, New York. It features cutting-edge research in genomics, neuroscience, psychiatry, and related fields, with a focus on innovation and translating scientific discoveries into clinical applications.