Abstract
The nervous system acts as a major regulator of the life span of Caenorhabditis elegans. Temperature and chemical stimuli from the environment are integrated with internal signals from the reproductive system to specify adult longevity. An insulin-like signaling cascade acts in neurons and coordinates control of senescence of the entire organism by regulating metabolism and a stress response mechanism. Caloric restriction extends life span, possibly by activation of the stress response program.
Publication types
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Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
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Review
MeSH terms
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Aging / genetics
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Aging / metabolism*
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Aging / physiology
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Animals
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Caenorhabditis elegans / genetics
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Caenorhabditis elegans / metabolism
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Caenorhabditis elegans / physiology
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Caenorhabditis elegans Proteins*
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Energy Intake
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Helminth Proteins / genetics
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Helminth Proteins / metabolism
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Insulin / metabolism*
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Longevity / genetics
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Nervous System / metabolism
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Oxidative Stress
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Signal Transduction / physiology*
Substances
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CLK-1 protein, C elegans
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Caenorhabditis elegans Proteins
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DAF-18 protein, C elegans
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Helminth Proteins
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Insulin