Lactylation Modification and Aging: A Molecular Link in the Life Process

Area of Science:

• Epigenetics and Molecular Biology
• Gerontology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Aging is linked to epigenetic alterations, including lactylation, a post-translational modification.
• Lactylation involves lactate and lysine residues and is emerging as a key factor in aging research.
• Changes in lactate concentration during aging influence epigenetic modifications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the role of lactylation in aging-related mechanisms.
• To summarize current research on lactylation's influence on cellular senescence, mitochondrial dysfunction, autophagy, and energy metabolism.
• To predict future research directions in lactylation and aging.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent studies on lactylation and aging.
• Synthesis of findings on lactylation's impact on key aging hallmarks.
• Analysis of current research gaps and future potential.

Main Results:

• Lactylation modification is observed during aging due to altered lactate levels.
• Lactylation influences cellular senescence, mitochondrial dysfunction, autophagy, and energy metabolism.
• Emerging evidence highlights lactylation's significant role in aging processes.

Conclusions:

• Lactylation is a critical epigenetic mechanism implicated in aging.
• Further research into lactylation's role can uncover new therapeutic targets for age-related diseases.
• Future studies should focus on the precise mechanisms linking lactylation to aging and its potential interventions.