"Our findings confirm the significance of mitochondrial function in the aging process," said Dr. Reversade. "They also unexpectedly highlight the importance of metabolism as PYCR1 is important in the synthesis of proline, a common amino acid involved in metabolism. Age-defying and anti-wrinkling treatments for common disorders related to ageing may also benefit from sustaining proline metabolism."

"We are excited by these findings of Bruno and colleagues, which open up new possibilities in the field of aging and skin research," added Birgit Lane, Ph.D., a skin biologist and Executive Director of IMB, one of the research institutes sponsored by Singapore's A*STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research).

"The study is a great example of scientific synergy - when clinicians and scientists from around the world come together to share their specialist skills and knowledge, they can discover new insights into complex medical conditions," said Dr. Lane. "Rare genetic disorders often provide surprising revelations. Pooling resources and targeting research to find new ways of combating disease - and benefiting people faster - is exactly what we try to do at IMB."

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