Related Experiment Videos
Low methionine ingestion by rats extends life span
N Orentreich1, J R Matias, A DeFelice
1Orentreich Foundation for the Advancement of Science, Inc., Biomedical Research Station, Cold Spring-on-Hudson, NY 10516.
The Journal of Nutrition
|February 1, 1993
Summary
Lifelong reduction of the essential amino acid L-methionine in male rats significantly extended their lifespan by 30%. This methionine restriction impacted growth and energy intake without being solely due to food restriction.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Nutritional Biochemistry
- Animal Models
Background:
- Dietary energy restriction is a known method for extending mammalian lifespan.
- The role of specific nutrient restriction, particularly amino acids, in longevity is less understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of lifelong reduction of the essential amino acid L-methionine on mammalian lifespan.
- To explore the relationship between methionine restriction, growth, and energy consumption.
Main Methods:
- Lifelong dietary intervention in male Fischer 344 rats, varying L-methionine concentration.
- Assessment of lifespan, growth rates, and food intake.
- Studies on energy consumption and metabolic adjustments.
Main Results:
- Lifelong methionine restriction (0.17% vs. 0.86%) extended rat lifespan by 30%.
- Methionine restriction abolished growth despite increased food intake per body weight.
- Energy intake was near normal for size, and growth was not limited by food intake.
Conclusions:
- Specific reduction of L-methionine can significantly extend lifespan in mammals.
- The mechanism is independent of overall food restriction and involves complex metabolic adaptations.
- Methionine metabolism pathways offer potential targets for understanding this longevity effect.