"Quality control service" inside cells prevents aging
Biologists have discovered a new cellular mechanism regulating aging and fertility. The study was published in Nature Aging.Researchers at the Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology of the Hellas Research and Technology Foundation have discovered a fundamental quality control mechanism that serves to protect cell integrity and nuclear function. This mechanism makes a crucial contribution to longevity and fertility.
Scientists discovered that recycling of nuclear and nucleus components through autophagy (recycling of dead cell components) slows somatic cell aging and maintains immortality of germ cells required for reproduction. The nuclear envelope protein Nesprin-2 and its ortholog (a homologous protein in other species) ANC-1 provide the control mechanism.
These proteins maintain a small size of the nucleus (the internal component of the nucleus), which is a necessary condition for increased longevity. They also prevent abnormalities in the shape of the nucleus and the accumulation of laminin, the main structural component of the nuclear lamina. In addition, nucleophagy (nucleus cell autophagy) with the help of these proteins is necessary for normal germ cell development.
In their work, scientists used two types of experimental animals: nematodes Caenorhabditis elegans and mice. The study showed that disruption of ANC-1 causes the appearance of tumor-like structures in the germline and progressive sterility, while disabling Nesprin-2 in female mice causes ovarian carcinoma.
Biologists say that numerous studies have previously shown that the ultrastructure of the cell nucleus changes dramatically during aging and the development of cancer. And the small size of the nucleus is associated with longevity and life-extending interventions. However, the molecular and cellular mechanisms causing these changes have long remained unclear.
Researchers believe that similar mechanisms control aging and fertility not only in animals but also in humans. Understanding how they work will help increase longevity and quality of life, they add.
Source: https://www.nature.com/articles/s43587-022-00327-4