Longevity and aging

Abstract

Research into the biology of aging seeks to understand the basic mechanisms of aging, with the goal of extending the period of life spent free from chronic disease and disability. Aging results from molecular processes that are modulated by genetic and environmental parameters. At least some of these mechanisms of aging are broadly shared across eukaryotic species from yeast to mice, and likely humans, as well. Recent breakthroughs in aging-related research have identified conserved longevity factors, such as components of the insulin-like signaling pathway and the mechanistic target of rapamycin, and have suggested potential paths toward developing the first interventions to slow aging in humans.

Figure 1.. Aging drives disease

Aging is the greatest risk factor for the leading causes of death in developed nations. Risk of death from Alzheimer’s Disease, diabetes, heart disease, and cancer increase dramatically with age. Graphs represent data taken from the United States Center for Disease Control database for deaths in 2010.

Figure 2.. Reduced mTOR signaling extends lifespan in response to dietary restriction

Dietary restriction reduced mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) complex I activity, and studies in yeast, nematodes, and flies have implicated at least three distinct mTOR complex I- regulated processes in lifespan extension from dietary restriction: reduced mRNA translation, increased autophagy, and improved mitochondrial function. The mTOR complex I inhibitor rapamycin has also been shown to extend lifespan in each of these organisms.