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Updated: Jul 4, 2026
09:37
A Phenotyping Regimen for Genetically Modified Mice Used to Study Genes Implicated in Human Diseases of Aging
Published on: July 14, 2016
The use of genetically engineered model systems for research on human aging
Guenter Lepperdinger1, Peter Berger, Michael Breitenbach
1Department of Extracellular Matrix Research, Institute for Biomedical Aging Research, Austria Academy of Sciences, Rennweg 10, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria.
Summary
Scientists are uncovering cellular aging mechanisms using model organisms to understand human aging. A new database, GiSAO, aids in identifying genes that regulate lifespan, offering insights into age-related diseases.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology and molecular biology
- Cellular mechanisms of aging
Background:
- Aging research aims to identify cellular molecular mechanisms underlying age-associated human diseases.
- Model organism research has revealed conserved aging mechanisms, some applicable to humans.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate cellular aging mechanisms using genetic analyses in lower eukaryotic model organisms.
- To understand regulatory pathways implicated in aging processes.
Main Methods:
- Established the GiSAO database for analyzing genome-wide expression patterns.
- Studied gene expression regulated by senescence, apoptosis, and oxidative stress in model systems.
- Identified candidate genes impacting lifespan in yeast, Drosophila melanogaster, and C. elegans.
Main Results:
- The GiSAO database provides a resource for analyzing gene expression related to aging.
- Candidate genes influencing lifespan regulation have been identified.
- These genes are being tested for their effects on lifespan in multiple model organisms.
Conclusions:
- Genetic analyses in model organisms are crucial for understanding aging.
- The GiSAO database facilitates the discovery of genes involved in aging.
- Further research will elucidate the role of identified genes in lifespan regulation and age-related diseases.
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