Scientists have identified a gene which can help one live to 100 years, a breakthrough that they claim may pave the way for anti-ageing drugs.

An international team, led by Albert Einstein College of Medicine, studying a group of people in American Ashkenazi Jewish community with an average age of 97, found they had all inherited a gene that appears to prevent cells ageing.

Their study found that the 86 people analysed and their children had higher levels of an enzyme telomerase which is known to protect the body's DNA from degrading, 'The Daily Telegraph' reported.

According to the scientists, the finding could lead to anti-ageing drugs.

Telomerase is known to protect telomeres which stop the string of DNA unravelling much like the plastic tips at the ends of shoelaces stop fraying. Each time a cell divides, its telomeres shortens and the cell becomes more susceptible to dying.