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Sci. Aging Knowl. Environ., 8 March 2006
Vol. 2006, Issue 6, p. nf7
[DOI: 10.1126/sageke.2006.6.nf7]

NEWS FOCUS

Craving an Answer

After 70 years, researchers might be closing in on how calorie restriction extends life

Mitch Leslie

http://sageke.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/full/2006/6/nf7

Abstract: Calorie restriction (CR) tunes up metabolism and makes animals more active. However, the regimen has drawbacks, such as sensitivity to cold and loss of reproduction. Some animals don't gain time, and CR might not work for old individuals. Researchers don't have a full-fledged theory for how CR works, but some scientists postulate that the diet extends life by activating a stress-fighting response. Some researchers argue that we are close to understanding one molecular mechanism behind that effect that involves the enzyme Sir2p. Recent work questions the Sir2p connection and supports an alternative, the TOR pathway. Fat and leaky mitochondria might also play a role in CR. An upcoming study might clarify the diet's benefits for humans.

Citation: M. Leslie, Craving an Answer. Sci. Aging Knowl. Environ. 2006 (6), nf7 (2006).

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Science of Aging Knowledge Environment. ISSN 1539-6150