Work

Social interaction-mediated lifespan extension of Drosophila Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase mutants

Year: 2008

Type: article

Abstract: Beneficial effects of social interaction on aging have been studied in humans and other species. We found that short-lived Drosophila mutants of the antioxidant enzyme Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase displayed a robust lifespan extension, with improved stress resistance and motor ability, upon cohousing with active flies of longer lifespan or younger age. Genetic, surgical, and environmental manipulations revealed motor and sensory components in behavioral interactions required for the lifespan extension induced by cohousing. Our results provide a definitive case of beneficial social interaction on lifespan and a useful entry point for analyzing the underlying molecular networks and physiological mechanisms.

Source: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences

DOI: 10.1073/pnas.0711127105

Authors: Hongyu Ruan, Chun-Fang Wu

Institutions: University of Iowa, University of Wisconsin–Madison

Language: English

Topic: Genetics, Aging, and Longevity in Model Organisms

Subfield: Aging

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

Open Access status: green

Funders: National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke

Award: Plasticity of Neuronal Function and Form in Drosophila