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Measurement of Lifespan in Drosophila melanogaster
Published on: January 7, 2013
Increased hsp22 RNA levels in Drosophila lines genetically selected for increased longevity
R Kurapati1, H B Passananti, M R Rose
1Department of Biological Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles 90089-1340, USA.
Summary
Increased expression of small heat shock protein (hsp) genes hsp22 and hsp23 in Drosophila correlates with longer life spans. This suggests a role for these heat shock proteins in aging and stress resistance.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Molecular Biology
- Aging Research
Background:
- Small heat shock proteins (hsp) are implicated in cellular stress responses.
- hsp22 and hsp23 gene expression increases during aging in Drosophila.
- The functional significance of these heat shock proteins in longevity remains unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the correlation between hsp22 and hsp23 gene expression and lifespan in Drosophila.
- To determine if genetic selection for longevity affects the expression of these heat shock protein genes.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of RNA levels for hsp22, hsp23, and control genes (rp49, AP3/RpPO) throughout the adult lifespan.
- Comparison of gene expression between genetically selected long-lived (O) lines and control (B) lines of Drosophila.
Main Results:
- hsp22 RNA levels were significantly higher (twofold-tenfold) in long-lived O lines compared to control B lines.
- hsp23 RNA levels showed a smaller but significant increase in O lines versus B lines.
- Expression of control ribosomal protein genes remained similar between O and B lines.
Conclusions:
- Elevated hsp22 and hsp23 RNA levels are associated with increased lifespan in Drosophila.
- These findings suggest a role for hsp22 and hsp23 in promoting longevity and stress resistance.
