Higher levels of heat shock proteins in longer-lived mammals and birds.

Cellular stress resistance is generally associated with longevity, but the mechanisms underlying this phenotype are not clear. In invertebrate models there is a clear role for heat shock proteins (Hsps) and organelle-specific unfolded protein responses (UPR) in longevity. However, this has not been demonstrated in vertebrates.

Rapid upregulation of heart antioxidant enzymes during arousal from estivation in the Giant African snail (Achatina fulica).

Estivation is an adaptive response to environments characterized by elevated temperatures and desiccative stress, as may occur during summer dry seasons. Similar to diapause and hibernation, it is characterized by low levels of activity, a drastically suppressed metabolic rate and enhanced stress resistance. We tested the hypothesis that Achatina fulica, a pulmonate land snail, enhances stress resistance during estivation and/or arousal by upregulating intracellular antioxidant defenses in the heart, kidney, hepatopancreas and foot tissues.

Enhanced protein repair and recycling are not correlated with longevity in 15 vertebrate endotherm species.

Previous studies have shown that longevity is associated with enhanced cellular stress resistance. This observation supports the disposable soma theory of aging, which suggests that the investment made in cellular maintenance will be proportional to selective pressures to extend lifespan. Maintenance of protein homeostasis is a critical component of cellular maintenance and stress resistance.

Mitochondrial redox metabolism: aging, longevity and dietary effects.

Mitochondrial redox metabolism has long been considered to play important roles in mammalian aging and the development of age-related pathologies in the major oxidative organs. Both genetic and dietary manipulations of mitochondrial redox metabolism have been associated with the extension of lifespan. Here we provide a broad overview of the circumstantial evidence showing associations between mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) metabolism, aging and longevity.

Upregulation of intracellular antioxidant enzymes in brain and heart during estivation in the African lungfish Protopterus dolloi.

The African slender lungfish, Protopterus dolloi, is highly adapted to withstand periods of drought by secreting a mucous cocoon and estivating for periods of months to years. Estivation is similar to the diapause and hibernation of other animal species in that it is characterized by negligible activity and a profoundly depressed metabolic rate. As is typically observed in quiescent states, estivating P.