The AMP-activated protein kinase AAK-2 links energy levels and insulin-like signals to lifespan in C. elegans.

Authors: Apfeld J; O'Connor G; McDonagh T; DiStefano PS; Curtis R
Year: 2004
Journal: Genes & development
Abstract: Although limiting energy availability extends lifespan in many organisms, it is not understood how lifespan is coupled to energy levels. We find that the AMP:ATP ratio, a measure of energy levels, increases with age in Caenorhabditis elegans and can be used to predict life expectancy. The C. elegans AMP-activated protein kinase alpha subunit AAK-2 is activated by AMP and functions to extend lifespan. In addition, either an environmental stressor that increases the AMP:ATP ratio or mutations that lower insulin-like signaling extend lifespan in an aak-2-dependent manner. Thus, AAK-2 is a sensor that couples lifespan to information about energy levels and insulin-like signals.
Reference

Integration:

Created on Nov. 5, 2012, 5:55 p.m.
Not linked
Integrated: False

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Species: Nematode

Experiments: 0
Interventions:

High-temperature pulse (HTP)

aak-2 mutation

aak-2 overexpression

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