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Published on: December 9, 2022
Role of the IGF/insulin system in longevity
1Department of Medical Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy. daniela.mari@unimi.it
Minerva Endocrinologica
|October 25, 2011
Summary
Genetic factors significantly influence human lifespan, particularly after age 60. The insulin/IGF-1 signaling pathway, crucial in model organisms, may also play a role in human longevity, though further research is needed.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Gerontology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Human life expectancy is influenced by both environmental and genetic factors.
- Genetic polymorphisms account for an estimated 25-32% of lifespan differences after age 60.
- Genes influencing lifespan in model organisms have human counterparts that may affect aging and disease resistance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the role of longevity genes and pathways in human aging.
- To investigate the insulin/IGF-1 signaling pathway's potential impact on human lifespan.
- To identify potential therapeutic targets for age-related diseases and lifespan extension.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on genetic factors and lifespan.
- Analysis of data from animal models (worms, insects, mice) regarding longevity pathways.
- Examination of human population studies and genetic polymorphisms related to longevity.
Main Results:
- The insulin/IGF-1 signaling pathway is well-established as a key regulator of longevity in model organisms.
- Mutations affecting the GH/IGF axis in mice lead to significant lifespan extension (20-70%).
- Evidence suggests this pathway is an evolutionarily conserved network regulating lifespan across species.
Conclusions:
- The insulin/IGF-1 pathway is a conserved regulator of lifespan, with strong evidence from animal models.
- The role of the IGF1 axis in human longevity remains controversial and requires extensive further study.
- Understanding this pathway could lead to new treatments for age-related diseases and strategies to prolong human life.
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