Generic placeholder image

Current Genomics

Editor-in-Chief

ISSN (Print): 1389-2029
ISSN (Online): 1875-5488

Mitochondria and Organismal Longevity

Author(s): Ara B. Hwang, Dae-Eun Jeong and Seung-Jae Lee

Volume 13, Issue 7, 2012

Page: [519 - 532] Pages: 14

DOI: 10.2174/138920212803251427

Price: $65

Abstract

Mitochondria are essential for various biological processes including cellular energy production. The oxidative stress theory of aging proposes that mitochondria play key roles in aging by generating reactive oxygen species (ROS), which indiscriminately damage macromolecules and lead to an age-dependent decline in biological function. However, recent studies show that increased levels of ROS or inhibition of mitochondrial function can actually delay aging and increase lifespan. The aim of this review is to summarize recent findings regarding the role of mitochondria in organismal aging processes. We will discuss how mitochondria contribute to evolutionarily conserved longevity pathways, including mild inhibition of respiration, dietary restriction, and target of rapamycin (TOR) signaling.

Keywords: Mitochondria, Aging, Reactive oxygen species, Dietary restriction, Target of rapamycin (TOR)


Rights & Permissions Print Cite
© 2024 Bentham Science Publishers | Privacy Policy