Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 26, 2026

Measurement of Protein Turnover Rates in Senescent and Non-Dividing Cultured Cells with Metabolic Labeling and Mass Spectrometry
Published on: April 6, 2022
The hallmarks of protein and amino acid restriction in aging and longevity
Bailey A Knopf1,2,3, Dudley W Lamming1,2,3,4,5
1Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA.
Abstract:
Despite widespread recommendations for higher protein intake during aging, increasing evidence suggests that dietary protein restriction (PR) promotes metabolic health, healthspan, and lifespan across diverse organisms. Mechanistic studies further demonstrate that restriction of specific amino acids, particularly methionine, isoleucine, and valine, recapitulates many of the benefits of PR, highlighting the specific amino acid composition of the diet as a key determinant of aging. Here, we define the hallmarks of PR through the lens of aging, examining how PR and restriction of specific essential amino acids impact metabolic health, nutrient sensing, senescence, mitochondrial function, and the epigenome. We also discuss the known and unknown roles of non-essential amino acids in healthy aging. Overall, this review provides a comprehensive overview of current knowledge regarding the benefits of PR and amino acid restriction for healthy aging and highlights the therapeutic potential of interventions based on these diets to promote healthspan and longevity.
Related Concept Videos
Aging
Cellular Clock Theory
The cellular clock theory posits that the human lifespan is closely tied to the finite capacity of cells to divide, a phenomenon governed by telomeres, which are protective caps at the ends of...
Overview of Protein Metabolism
Amino acids play various roles in the body once they are absorbed into cells. They are restructured...
The Effect of Aging on Tissues
Proteins: Dietary Sources and Requirements
Regulated Protein Degradation
Protein degradation plays two important roles in the cells. It helps to protect cells from misfolded or damaged proteins before they lead to a...
Mitochondria
