A group of scientists at the Glasgow University has conducted a study in which they have affirmed that they have discovered a DNA whose length can help predict the total life span of an individual.

The research that was published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences USA has revealed that the study researchers found that genetic code while studying a piece of DNA which is known as telomere in zebra finches, a kind of bird.

The lead researcher, Professor Pat Monaghan, said in order to reach at above conclusion they studied 99 zebra finches. They found telomere at the tip of the chromosome which has a genetic code. This code is covered by a cap which is similar to the plastic caps that shoe laces have.

It was found that zebra finches live approximately from 210 days to nine year, but best assessment could only be possible if it is done in its early days, like at the time when the bird is 25 days old.

In order to study the telomere length, the study researchers took blood samples and found that telomere length differs. It is generally due to heredity difference but many times it could also be due to increased stress and differences in environmental factors.

Till now, this much is known that length of telomere dictates that whether a person would live a long life or not. But still they need to study other affecting factors such as level of stress and environmental pressures on length of telomere.

Monaghan said, "Our study shows the great importance of processes acting early in life. We now need to know more about how early life conditions can influence the pattern of telomere loss and the relative importance of inherited and environmental factor".