The study re-examines the traditional view of the heritability of aging, which holds that life expectancy is mainly influenced by environmental factors and lifestyle.[6] New findings show that the genetic contribution to human lifespan is about 50 percent, more than double previous estimates.[4] A mathematical model from the Wyss Institute and NECSI assumes a heterogeneous environment with limited resources and shows that mechanisms of active lifespan limitation as a heritable trait provide long-term benefits to offspring.[1] In this model, an optimal lifespan emerged that varied according to environmental conditions, with some degree of self-reporting of lifespan always preferable to no restriction.[1] Standard models assume a homogeneous environment where longer lifespans and higher reproduction are always preferred.[1] The model suggests the existence of intrinsic genetic mechanisms limiting lifespan, intervention in which could dramatically extend healthy lifespan.[1]