With age, the klotho level decreases while the prevalence of hypertension increases.

'Klotho is also available as a protein and, conceivably, we could ingest it as a powder much like we do with protein drinks,' he said.

Scientists have been working with the klotho gene and its link to aging since 1997 when it was discovered by Japanese scientists.

Researchers used one injection of the klotho gene in hypertensive research models and were able to markedly reduce BP by the second week.

It continued to decline steadily for the length of the project - 12 weeks. The klotho gene was delivered with a safe viral vector that is currently used for gene therapy. The virus is already approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for use in humans.

The study appeared in the journal Hypertension.