Separating cause from effect: how does insulin/IGF signalling control lifespan in worms, flies and mice?

Piper, M.D.W., Selman, C. , McElwee, J.J. and Partridge, L. (2008) Separating cause from effect: how does insulin/IGF signalling control lifespan in worms, flies and mice? Journal of Internal Medicine, 263(2), pp. 179-191. (doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2796.2007.01906.x)

Abstract

Ageing research has been revolutionized by the use of model organisms to discover genetic alterations that can extend lifespan. In the last 5 years alone, it has become apparent that single gene mutations in the insulin and insulin-like growth-factor signalling pathways can lengthen lifespan in worms, flies and mice, implying evolutionary conservation of mechanisms. Importantly, this research has also shown that these mutations can keep the animals healthy and disease-free for longer and can alleviate specific ageing-related pathologies. These findings are striking in view of the negative effects that disruption of these signalling pathways can also produce. Here, we summarize the body of work that has lead to these discoveries and point out areas of interest for future work in characterizing the genetic, molecular and biochemical details of the mechanisms to achieving a longer and healthier life.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Selman, Professor Colin
• Authors: Piper, M.D.W., Selman, C., McElwee, J.J., and Partridge, L.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Biodiversity, One Health & Veterinary Medicine
• Journal Name: Journal of Internal Medicine
• Publisher: Wiley-Blackwell Publishing Ltd.
• ISSN: 0954-6820
• Published Online: 21 January 2008