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In conclusion, the data reported here confirm in a European population the mtDNA/longevity associa- tion observed in the Japanese (12). The implication of these results can be far-reaching, taking into account the important role of the mitochondria in the aging process and in the pathogenesis of age- related diseases.  

Work was financed by Regione Calabria (Italy), Progetto Operativo Plurifondo 94/99; by Italian Ministry of University and Scientific Research (M.U.R.S.T. ex 40% and 60%); and by Italian Ministry of Health (grants to the Italian National Research Center on Aging).

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