The international project led  by Bruno Reversade, from the Singapore Institute of Medical Biology,  was made up of an international team of researchers from thirteen different countries and representing fifteen different research institutes.

A mutation in the PYCR1 gene can cause a rare genetic condition that leads to premature aging. The research showd a clear link between the PYCR1 protein and the extent of the skin wrinkling, as well as other age related conditions such as loss of bone density.

The scientists say that by increasing the levels of the PYCR1 protein they have been able to reverse the gene mutation that causes the wrinkly skin condition. Developing therapies to increase the activity of this protein could possibly reverse the effects.