Multiple mild heat-shocks decrease the Gompertz component of mortality in Caenorhabditis elegans.

Authors: Wu D; Cypser JR; Yashin AI; Johnson TE

Abstract: Exposure to mild heat-stress (heat-shock) can significantly increase the life expectancy of the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. A single heat-shock early in life extends longevity by 20% or more and affects life-long mortality by decreasing initial mortality only; the rate of increase in subsequent mortality (Gompertz component) is unchanged. Repeated mild heat-shocks throughout life have a larger effect on life span than does a single heat-shock early in life. Here, we ask how multiple heat-shocks affect the mortality trajectory in nematodes and find increases of life expectancy of close to 50% and of maximum longevity as well. We examined mortality using large numbers of animals and found that multiple heat-shocks not only decrease initial mortality, but also slow the Gompertz rate of increase in mortality. Thus, multiple heat-shocks have anti-aging hormetic effects and represent an effective approach for modulating aging.

Keywords: Aging/*physiology; Animals; Caenorhabditis elegans; Heat-Shock Proteins/*metabolism; Heat-Shock Response/*physiology; Hot Temperature; *Longevity/physiology; Stress, Physiological/*physiology; Survival Analysis
Journal: Experimental gerontology
Volume: 44
Issue: 9
Pages: 607-12
Date: July 8, 2009
PMID: 19580861
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Citation:

Wu D, Cypser JR, Yashin AI, Johnson TE (2009) Multiple mild heat-shocks decrease the Gompertz component of mortality in Caenorhabditis elegans. Experimental gerontology 44: 607-12.


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