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

Pamela L. Larsen, Catherine F. Clarke

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

216 Scopus citations

Abstract

The isoprenylated benzoquinone coenzyme Q is a redox-active lipid essential 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 ∼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.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)120-123
Number of pages4
JournalScience
Volume295
Issue number5552
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 4 2002
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General

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