Boosting Sirt4 gene activity extends healthy lifespan in fruit flies
A new study on the mechanics of aging and longevity finds that fruit flies inhibited from producing the protein Sirt4 -- which is also found in humans -- are short-lived, while flies modified to make extra Sirt4 are long-lived. In addition, flies lacking Sirt4 display increased sensitivity to starvation, decreased fertility and activity, and an inability to use energy stores in their bodies.
A new study on the mechanics of aging and longevity finds that fruit flies inhibited from producing the protein Sirt4 -- which is also found in humans -- are short-lived, while flies modified to make extra Sirt4 are long-lived. In addition, flies lacking Sirt4 display increased sensitivity to starvation, decreased fertility and activity, and an inability to use energy stores in their bodies.
