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Circadian autophagy drives iTRF-mediated longevity
Matt Ulgherait1, Adil M Midoun2, Scarlet J Park3,4
1Department of Genetics and Development, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY, USA.
Nature
|September 30, 2021
Summary
Intermittent time-restricted feeding (iTRF) extends lifespan and delays aging markers in fruit flies by enhancing circadian-regulated autophagy. This suggests potential health benefits for humans through similar interventions.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Chronobiology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Time-restricted feeding (TRF) is a dietary strategy restricting food intake to specific daily hours, showing potential as an anti-aging intervention.
- The molecular mechanisms underlying TRF's health benefits, particularly its link to circadian rhythms, remain largely unexplored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of intermittent time-restricted feeding (iTRF) on lifespan and aging markers in Drosophila.
- To elucidate the molecular pathways, specifically circadian regulation and autophagy, involved in iTRF-mediated health benefits.
Main Methods:
- Developed and implemented an intermittent time-restricted feeding (iTRF) regimen in Drosophila.
- Assessed lifespan extension and the onset of aging markers in muscles and gut.
- Analyzed the role of circadian regulation and autophagy in mediating iTRF's effects, including specific timing of autophagy induction.
Main Results:
- iTRF significantly extended fly lifespan and delayed aging markers.
- iTRF enhanced circadian-regulated gene transcription.
- Lifespan extension by iTRF was dependent on both circadian regulation and autophagy.
- Night-specific autophagy induction was necessary and sufficient for lifespan extension, while day-specific induction was not.
Conclusions:
- Circadian-regulated autophagy is a critical mechanism underlying the health benefits of iTRF in Drosophila.
- These findings suggest that interventions targeting circadian-regulated autophagy could offer anti-aging benefits and extend lifespan in humans.
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