CGC Bibliography Paper 5038

Extension of life-span in Caenorhabditis elegans by a diet lacking coenzyme Q.

Larsen PL, Clarke CF

Medline:

11778046

Citation:

Science 295: 120-123 2002

Type:

ARTICLE

Genes:

clk-1 daf-2 daf-12 daf-16 fer-15

Abstract:

The isoprenylated benzoquinone coenzyme Q is a redox-active lipid es sential for electron transport in aerobic respiration. Here, we show that withdrawal of coenzyme Q (Q) from the diet of wild-type nematodes extends adult life-span by similar to 60%. The longevity of clk-1, daf-2, daf-12, and daf-16 mutants is also extended by a Q-less diet. These results establish the importance of Q in life-span determination. The findings suggest that Q and the daf-2 pathway intersect at the mitochondria and imply that a concerted production coupled with enhanced scavenging of reactive oxygen species contributes to the substantial life-span extension.