The effects of temperature on the longevity of a radiation-sensitive mutant rad-8 of the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans.

Authors: Ishii N; Suzuki N; Hartman PS; Suzuki K

Abstract: The effects of temperature on development and life span were examined in a radiation- and oxygen-hypersensitive mutant (rad-8) of the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. At temperatures greater than 20 degrees C, the rad-8 mutant developed slightly slower and possessed a life span roughly equivalent to that of the wild type. At 16 degrees C, however, the mutant lived considerably longer than the wild type, with mean life spans of approximately 28 and 21 days, respectively. This lengthened life span was due to slower development. It was also dependent upon oxygen concentration, because the mean life spans of rad-8 and wild type were experimentally identical when reared at 16 degrees C in the presence of 5% rather than atmospheric oxygen. The rad-8 mutant represents an interesting paradox, as its life span can either be shortened or lengthened relative to the wild type, depending on temperature and oxygen concentration.

Keywords: Animals; Caenorhabditis elegans/anatomy & histology/*genetics/growth &; development/radiation effects; Female; Larva/physiology; Longevity/drug effects/*physiology; *Mutation/genetics; Oviposition/physiology; Oxygen/pharmacology; Sexual Maturation/physiology; *Temperature; Ultraviolet Rays
Journal: Journal of gerontology
Volume: 49
Issue: 3
Pages: B117-20
Date: May 1, 1994
PMID: 8169328
Select reference article to upload


Citation:

Ishii N, Suzuki N, Hartman PS, Suzuki K (1994) The effects of temperature on the longevity of a radiation-sensitive mutant rad-8 of the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. Journal of gerontology 49: B117-20.


Study
Update (Admin) | Auto-Update

Comment on This Data Unit