Bulgarian scientists have allegedly discovered one of the genes that causes cells to die, which may be able to eventually help slow down the aging process.

The scientists reached these important conclusions while searching for the genes, responsible for several hereditary diseases.

Neurology professor, Ivaylo Turnev, said that the examination of a Bulgarian family with hereditary glaucoma found a second gene with a significant role in the disease. This gene also surprisingly showed other responsibilities, BGNES reported.

Assistant professor, Silvia Chernikova, stated; "This gene, which is a growth factor, is expressed in other tissues, especially the bone system, the cardio vascular.. and therefore it this second gene is very interesting and clinical research is yet to come."

Famous Bulgarian scientists who live and work in Australia and UK are also involved in the research.

Turnev concluded; "The deciphering of the human genome was the easiest work. Now starts the most difficult. To find the genes, to understand their functions and relation. And considering the whole financial and technological power of the world's universities the Bulgarian contribution is surprisingly significant."