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Metabolic journey to healthy longevity
Michelangela Barbieri1, Virginia Boccardi, Michela Papa
1Department of Geriatric Medicine and Metabolic Diseases, Second University of Naples, Napoli, Italy.
Hormone Research
|January 21, 2009
Summary
Healthy centenarians exhibit improved glucose handling, with higher insulin sensitivity and lower insulin-like growth factor I, suggesting successful aging. Caloric restriction may be key to achieving such longevity.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology and metabolic studies.
- Research into human longevity and aging processes.
Background:
- Aging involves progressive remodeling affecting anthropometrics and endocrine function, impacting metabolic factors.
- Centenarians represent a unique group with successful aging, yet the reasons for their longevity are not fully understood.
- Longevity in humans is linked to improved glucose handling, including increased insulin sensitivity and decreased insulin-like growth factor I.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the metabolic adaptations contributing to longevity in healthy centenarians.
- To understand the factors influencing successful aging and extreme lifespan.
Main Methods:
- This study reviews existing human research on centenarians and longevity.
- Analysis of anthropometric, endocrine, and metabolic factors associated with aging and lifespan.
Main Results:
- Healthy centenarians demonstrate enhanced glucose metabolism.
- Key indicators of longevity include elevated insulin sensitivity and reduced plasma insulin-like growth factor I.
- Successful aging is associated with specific metabolic profiles.
Conclusions:
- Caloric restriction emerges as a significant modulator of metabolism for achieving longevity.
- Metabolic adaptations, potentially influenced by genetics, play a crucial role in the health of centenarians.
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