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Updated: Oct 11, 2025

Measuring Caenorhabditis elegans Life Span in 96 Well Microtiter Plates
Published on: March 18, 2011
G protein-coupled receptors that influence lifespan of human and animal models
Francisco Alejandro Lagunas-Rangel1
1Department of Neuroscience, Functional Pharmacology, Uppsala University, Husargatan 3, BMC Box 593, 751 24, Uppsala, Sweden. francisco.lagunas@neuro.uu.se.
Abstract:
Humanity has always sought to live longer and for this, multiple strategies have been tried with varying results. In this sense, G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) may be a good option to try to prolong our life while maintaining good health since they have a substantial participation in a wide variety of processes of human pathophysiology and are one of the main therapeutic targets. In this way, we present the analysis of a series of GPCRs whose activity has been shown to affect the lifespan of animal and human models, and in which we put a special interest in describing the molecular mechanisms involved. Our compilation of data revealed that the mechanisms most involved in the role of GPCRs in lifespan are those that mimic dietary restriction, those related to insulin signaling and the AMPK and TOR pathways, and those that alter oxidative homeostasis and severe and/or chronic inflammation. We also discuss the possibility of using agonist or antagonist drugs, depending on the beneficial or harmful effects of each GPCR, in order to prolong people's lifespan and healthspan.
Insights
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) influence lifespan by mimicking dietary restriction and modulating key cellular pathways. Targeting these receptors offers potential for extending human healthspan and lifespan.
Area of Science:
- Biogerontology
- Molecular Biology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Humanity seeks longevity and healthspan, with G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) identified as crucial in pathophysiology.
- GPCRs are significant therapeutic targets due to their roles in diverse biological processes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze GPCRs affecting lifespan in animal and human models.
- To elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying GPCRs' influence on longevity.
Main Methods:
- Review and analysis of scientific literature on GPCRs and lifespan.
- Description of molecular pathways modulated by GPCRs.
Main Results:
- GPCRs impact lifespan through mechanisms mimicking dietary restriction.
- Key pathways involved include insulin signaling, AMPK, TOR, oxidative homeostasis, and inflammation.
Conclusions:
- Modulating GPCR activity via agonists or antagonists may prolong human lifespan and healthspan.
- Understanding GPCR mechanisms provides a novel therapeutic avenue for aging research.
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