读写译教师用书unitfivelifescience

Unit Five

Life Science

The Text

Introduction

Aging is a natural phenomenon. Some people can successfully stay healthy into old age, but some people suffer a lot from age-related diseases as they are aging. What is a healthy life extension? Scientists are planning to sequence genes to have better understanding of the genetic variations that help people escape the aging-related diseases such as heart disease, cancer and diabetes. Scientists plan to focus on the genes that are linked to health and longevity and started searching the genome for clues to healthy aging and a lengthy life span. Their study reveals that old healthy people are genetically susceptible to many serious diseases including cardiovascular disease, stroke and diabetes, they don’t get any of these diseases. Why do some people live a long life without suffering from age-related diseases? Researchers have sequenced genes in old healthy people and compared them with DNA samples of people who died from age-related diseases. They have found that these older healthy people are more likely to carry protective genes that play an important role in people’s successful aging.

Language Points

1.sequence v. (Par.1): arrange in a particular order

e.g. to sequence the books in the library

sequence n.: a number of things (actions, events, etc) that happen or come one after another

e.g. the sequence of events leading to war

2.shed light on (Par.1): make sth clear and easy to understand

e.g. We’re hoping that this letter will shed some light on the mystery.

3.ailment n. (Par.1) : an illness (that is not very serious)

e.g. a physical/minor ailment

He doesn’t have even the slightest ailment.

4.insulate n. (Par. 1): protect or cover sth with a material that prevents electricity,

heat or sound from passing through

e.g. You can save a lot of money on heating if your house is well insulated.

5.blemish n. (Par. 2): a mark that spoils the way sth looks

e.g. Make up to hide spots and other blemishes.

6.These people have genetic susceptibility markers for many serious diseases,

including cardiovascular disease, stroke, and diabetes, but they don't get any of these diseases. (Par. 2): …these people are likely to suffer from many serious diseases such as cardiovascular disease, stroke, and diabetes, but they d on’t get any of them.

cardiovascular a.: relating to the heart and blood vessels.

7.account for (Par.2): to explain or give a reason for sth

e.g. I was asked by my boss to account for all the money I had spent