Six plant extracts delay yeast chronological aging through different signaling pathways

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Molecular Biology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Yeast chronological aging is regulated by conserved signaling pathways and protein kinases.
• Identifying novel compounds that modulate aging is crucial for understanding longevity.
• Plant extracts represent a promising source for discovering aging-influencing compounds.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the mechanisms by which six novel plant extracts slow yeast chronological aging.
• To determine the effects of single-gene-deletion mutations in aging-related pathways on extract efficacy.
• To elucidate the interactions between plant extracts and specific signaling pathways controlling aging.

Main Methods:

• Yeast chronological aging assays were performed.
• Single-gene-deletion mutants for key signaling pathways and kinases were utilized.
• The aging-delaying efficiencies of six plant extracts were assessed in these mutants.
• Specific pathway interactions (TORC1, SNF1, PKA, Rim15, Sch9, PKH1/2) were analyzed.

Main Results:

• Plant extract 4 reduces TORC1 inhibition of SNF1.
• Plant extract 5 affects multiple branches of the PKA pathway.
• Plant extract 6 influences currently uncharacterized aging processes.
• Plant extract 8 decreases PKA's inhibition of SNF1.
• Plant extract 12 enhances the activity of the anti-aging kinase Rim15.
• Plant extract 21 inhibits Sch9 kinase activated by PKH1/2.

Conclusions:

• The six plant extracts modulate yeast aging through distinct mechanisms involving conserved signaling pathways.
• These extracts offer potent, natural interventions for slowing aging.
• Further research into these extracts could reveal new targets for aging interventions.