Stockholm/Canberra, June 17 (SANA)Men who lose the Y chromosome in some of their cells as they age may face a higher risk ofcardiovascular disease,according to a new international study that sheds light on the biological processes associated with aging.

The research, published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology (JACC), examined a genetic phenomenon known as loss of chromosome Y (LOY), in which some cells gradually lose the Y chromosome over time. Researchers emphasized that the condition does not involve the complete disappearance of the chromosome from the body and becomes more common with advancing age.

The study was conducted by scientists from Australia’s Monash University in collaboration with Uppsala University and Sweden’s Karolinska Institute, using long-term data from the ASPREE study, which tracked the health of thousands of older men.

Researchers found that age-related loss of the Y chromosome may be associated with an increased likelihood of cardiovascular disease, as well as other health conditions linked to aging, including weakened immune function,chronic inflammationand certain forms of cancer.

Chromosomes contain the genetic material that governs the body’s development and biological functions. Men typically carry one X chromosome and one Y chromosome, while women generally carry two X chromosomes. In addition to determining male biological characteristics, the Y chromosome is believed to play a role in immune regulation and cellular function.

Scientists said repeated cell division throughout life can lead to genetic changes in some cells, including the loss of the Y chromosome. As these cells accumulate with age, they may influence a range of biological processes associated with disease.

The researchers stressed that the findings demonstrate a statistical association rather than a direct causal relationship and called for further studies to better understand the mechanisms involved.

They said continued research could help improve understanding ofbiological agingand contribute to the development of biomarkers capable of identifying health risks among older men.