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Life, death and membrane bilayers.

A J Hulbert1

  • 1Metabolic Research Centre and Department of Biological Science, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia. hulbert@uow.edu.au

The Journal of Experimental Biology
|June 11, 2003
PubMed
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The "membrane pacemaker" theory links membrane lipid composition to metabolic rate. Changes in membrane acyl composition influence aging and lifespan, particularly through lipid peroxidation.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Cell Biology
  • Evolutionary Biology

Background:

  • Membrane bilayers are fundamental to life, with hydrocarbon synthesis potentially predating life itself.
  • Membrane-associated processes are crucial metabolic components, with acyl composition correlating to metabolic activity.
  • The "membrane pacemaker" theory posits that the balance of unsaturated acyl chains in membranes dictates metabolic rate.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To explore the relationship between membrane acyl composition and metabolic rate.
  • To investigate the role of membrane chemistry in aging processes.
  • To examine the link between membrane acyl composition, lipid peroxidation, and lifespan.

Main Methods:

  • The study discusses the "membrane pacemaker" theory and its implications.

Related Experiment Videos

  • It reviews existing research on membrane acyl composition and its relation to metabolism and aging.
  • It considers the impact of factors like docosahexaenoate and calorie restriction.

    • Main Results:

    • Membrane acyl composition is predictably associated with metabolic activity.
    • The chemistry of membrane polyunsaturates, not just physical properties, is key to aging.
    • Membrane acyl composition correlates with maximum lifespan in mammals and birds, likely via lipid peroxidation.

    Conclusions:

    • The "membrane pacemaker" theory provides a framework for understanding metabolic rate determinants.
    • Membrane lipid peroxidation is implicated in aging, with composition influencing this process.
    • The study introduces the "membrane pacemaker hypothesis of aging," requiring further research.