Researchers: Pankaj Kapahi, Matt Kaeberlein, Malene Hansen
Dietary restriction (DR) is the most robust environmental manipulation known to increase active and healthy lifespan in many species. Despite differences in the protocols and the way DR is carried out in different organisms, conserved relationships are emerging among multiple species. Elegant studies from numerous model organisms are further defining the importance of various nutrient-signaling pathways including mTOR (mechanistic target of rapamycin), insulin/IGF-1-like signaling and sirtuins in mediating the effects of DR. We here review current advances in our understanding of the molecular mechanisms altered by DR to promote lifespan in three major invertebrate models, the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans, and the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster.
References
- Different dietary restriction regimens extend lifespan by both independent and overlapping genetic pathways in C. elegans.
- Lessons on longevity from budding yeast.
- With TOR, less is more: a key role for the conserved nutrient-sensing TOR pathway in aging.
- Inhibition of the Mechanistic Target of Rapamycin (mTOR)-Rapamycin and Beyond.
- dSir2 mediates the increased spontaneous physical activity in flies on calorie restriction.
- IGF-1 signalling and dietary restriction to regulate longevity.