Longer life spans and delayed maturation in wild-derived mice

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Genetics
• Animal Models

Background:

• Laboratory mice are inbred and adapted to breeding conditions, potentially altering genes influencing lifespan.
• Wild-trapped mice offer a genetic contrast to assess the impact of laboratory adaptation on aging.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate if inbreeding and laboratory adaptation have affected genes influencing mouse lifespan.
• To compare the longevity and physiological characteristics of wild-derived mouse lines with a standard laboratory stock.

Main Methods:

• Developed three wild-derived mouse lines (Idaho, Pohnpei, Majuro) from wild progenitors.
• Compared lifespan and physiological traits of wild-derived lines against a genetically heterogeneous laboratory stock (DC).
• Assessed mean and maximal lifespan, body size, sexual maturity, and biochemical markers (IGF-I, leptin, HbA1c).

Main Results:

• Idaho mice exhibited a 24% longer mean lifespan and 16% increased maximal lifespan compared to DC controls.
• Majuro mice showed a significant 9% increase in maximal longevity.
• Idaho and Majuro mice were smaller, lighter, and matured slower; Id mice had lower IGF-I, leptin, and HbA1c levels.

Conclusions:

• Laboratory adaptation and inbreeding may have selected against natural alleles that promote longevity.
• Wild-derived mouse stocks possess genetic variations valuable for studying aging physiology and biochemistry.
• These findings highlight the potential for natural genetic diversity to inform aging research.