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Gene expression defines natural changes in mammalian lifespan
Alexey A Fushan1, Anton A Turanov, Sang-Goo Lee
1Department of Bioinspired Science, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, 120-750, South Korea.
Aging Cell
|February 14, 2015
Summary
Mammal longevity varies greatly, but the molecular basis is unknown. This study reveals parallel evolution of gene expression and lifespan across 33 mammal species, offering insights into adaptive trait adjustments.
Area of Science:
- Evolutionary biology
- Genomics
- Comparative physiology
Background:
- Mammalian maximum lifespan exhibits over 100-fold variation.
- Evolution can alter longevity in either direction.
- The molecular mechanisms underlying natural lifespan changes are not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between gene expression variation and lifespan across diverse mammal species.
- To identify molecular processes and pathways associated with lifespan evolution.
Main Methods:
- RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) based gene expression analysis.
- Comparative analysis of liver, kidney, and brain tissues.
- Involved 33 diverse mammal species.
Main Results:
- Uncovered parallel evolution between gene expression patterns and maximum lifespan.
- Identified specific biological processes and pathways linked to lifespan variation.
- Observed concurrent evolution of lifespan and associated life-history traits.
Conclusions:
- Gene expression changes are a key factor in the adaptive evolution of mammalian lifespan.
- Nature can reversibly adjust lifespan and related traits during evolutionary radiations.
- Provides a molecular framework for understanding lifespan diversity in mammals.
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