Mrg19 depletion increases S. cerevisiae lifespan by augmenting ROS defence

Caloric restriction (CR) is the most compelling example of lifespan extension by external manipulation. Although the molecular mechanisms remain unknown, the theory of hormesis has been invoked to explain the life promoting effects of CR. Hormesis is defined as the beneficial effects of low intensity stressor on a cell or organism. Mrg19 is a putative transcription factor that regulates carbon and nitrogen metabolism in yeast. In this study, we have found that deletion of MRG19 gene causes metabolic shift in yeast cells, leading to higher intracellular reactive oxygen species, augmentation of scavenging enzymes and longer lifespan compared to wild-type cells. All these results together suggest that similar to CR, depletion of Mrg19 leads to a condition of mild stress which in turn enhances vitality.