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Defining genes that govern longevity in Caenorhabditis elegans

R H Ebert1, M A Shammas, B H Sohal

  • 1Dept. of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock 72205, USA.

Developmental Genetics
|January 1, 1996
PubMed
Summary

Genetic variations influence lifespan in Caenorhabditis elegans. This study confirms multiple genes, particularly on chromosomes II and IV, affect longevity and antioxidant enzyme levels, impacting stress resistance.

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Area of Science:

  • Genetics and Genomics
  • Aging Research
  • Model Organisms

Background:

  • Previous studies identified five chromosomal regions in Caenorhabditis elegans associated with lifespan determination.
  • Natural genetic variations (polymorphisms) between C. elegans strains likely play a role in longevity.
  • Further investigation is needed to clarify the specific roles of these polymorphic alleles.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To clarify the roles of naturally occurring polymorphic alleles in determining longevity in Caenorhabditis elegans.
  • To identify specific chromosomal regions and genes influencing lifespan through multigenerational crosses.
  • To investigate the relationship between genetic polymorphisms, antioxidant enzyme levels, and stress resistance.

Main Methods:

  • Conducted a second multigenerational cross between C. elegans strains Bristol-N2 and DH424 to create a new recombinant-inbred population.

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  • Utilized polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to genotype young and long-lived adult worms from a synchronous F15 population.
  • Exposed a recombinant-inbred population to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and genotyped resistant worms.
  • Measured superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase levels in aging parental strains.

    • Main Results:

    • Multiple genes differing between parental strains significantly influence lifespan.
    • Chromosome mapping identified two regions (chromosomes II and IV) containing genes with allelic differences associated with longevity.
    • Hydrogen peroxide resistance in a recombinant-inbred population implicated at least one previously identified longevity-determining chromosomal region.
    • Polymorphisms in SOD and catalase genes (or their regulation) were confirmed, correlating with increased longevity and high enzyme levels late in life.

    Conclusions:

    • Lifespan in Caenorhabditis elegans is a polygenic trait influenced by multiple genes with naturally occurring allelic variations.
    • Specific genes on chromosomes II and IV contribute to longevity, potentially through their effects on antioxidant enzyme activity.
    • High levels of superoxide dismutase and catalase late in life may confer increased longevity and resistance to oxidative stress.