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High-quality life extension by the enzyme peptide methionine sulfoxide reductase
Hongyu Ruan1, Xiang Dong Tang, Mai-Lei Chen
1Department of Biological Sciences, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA.
Abstract:
Cumulative oxidative damages to cell constituents are considered to contribute to aging and age-related diseases. The enzyme peptide methionine sulfoxide reductase A (MSRA) catalyzes the repair of oxidized methionine in proteins by reducing methionine sulfoxide back to methionine. However, whether MSRA plays a role in the aging process is poorly understood. Here we report that overexpression of the msrA gene predominantly in the nervous system markedly extends the lifespan of the fruit fly Drosophila. The MSRA transgenic animals are more resistant to paraquat-induced oxidative stress, and the onset of senescence-induced decline in the general activity level and reproductive capacity is delayed markedly. The results suggest that oxidative damage is an important determinant of lifespan, and MSRA may be important in increasing the lifespan in other organisms including humans.
Insights
Overexpressing the peptide methionine sulfoxide reductase A (MSRA) enzyme in fruit flies significantly extends lifespan and delays aging. This suggests MSRA
Area of Science:
- Molecular biology
- Gerontology
- Oxidative stress research
Background:
- Cellular oxidative damage contributes to aging and age-related diseases.
- The enzyme peptide methionine sulfoxide reductase A (MSRA) repairs oxidized methionine in proteins.
- The role of MSRA in the aging process is not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of MSRA in aging and lifespan.
- To determine if MSRA influences resistance to oxidative stress.
Main Methods:
- Overexpression of the msrA gene in the nervous system of Drosophila.
- Assessing lifespan extension in transgenic fruit flies.
- Evaluating resistance to paraquat-induced oxidative stress.
- Monitoring the onset of age-related decline in activity and reproduction.
Main Results:
- Overexpression of msrA markedly extends the lifespan of Drosophila.
- MSRA transgenic animals show increased resistance to oxidative stress.
- The decline in activity and reproductive capacity associated with senescence is delayed.
Conclusions:
- Oxidative damage is a key factor determining lifespan.
- MSRA plays a significant role in extending lifespan.
- MSRA may be a potential target for increasing lifespan in humans.