They live longer in the cold
For more than 100 years, scientists have known that the life expectancy of cold-blooded animals, such as worms, insects and fish, is longer at low ambient temperatures. However, until now, no one knows the exact mechanisms underlying this phenomenon.
Researchers at the Institute of Life Sciences, part of the University of Michigan, have identified a genetic program that helps prolong the life of roundworms at low temperatures. It turned out that warm-blooded animals, including humans, also have this program.
One of the traditional explanations of the reasons for the longevity of animals at low ambient temperatures is a passive thermodynamic process, manifested by a decrease in the rate of chemical reactions and, accordingly, a slowdown in the aging process.
However, according to the head of the study, Professor Shuang Xu (Shawn Xu), it turned out that, at least in roundworms, an increase in life expectancy with a decrease in ambient temperature is an active process regulated by genes.
The authors found that lowering the ambient temperature activates the nematode nerve and fat cell receptor, known as the TRPA1 channel. As a result, calcium ions begin to enter the cells, which triggers a signaling cascade, the ultimate target of which is the longevity-associated DAF-16/FOXO gene. Mutant worms that do not have the TRPA1 receptor are characterized by a shorter lifespan at low temperatures.
There is an analogue of this mechanism in the cells of other organisms, including humans. Previously, researchers have demonstrated that reducing the internal body temperature of warm-blooded animals, such as mice, by only 0.5 O C increases their life expectancy by 20%. However, no such experiments have been conducted with human participation.
Xu also adds that, in addition to the low temperature, the famous Japanese seasoning wasabi can also activate TRPA1, the use of which significantly increases the lifespan of nematodes. Whether regular visits to a sushi bar affect the life expectancy of at least mice is still unknown to science - but Japan ranks first in terms of life expectancy and the number of centenarians…
Article by Rui Xiao et al. A Genetic Program Promotes C. elegans Longevity at Cold Temperatures via a Thermosensitive TRP Channel published in the journal Cell.
Evgeniya Ryabtseva
Portal "Eternal youth" http://vechnayamolodost.ru based on the materials of the University of Michigan: Stay cool and live longer?21.02.2013