Boosting ATM Activity Promotes Longevity in Nematodes and Mice

Abstract

DNA damage accumulates with age 1 . However, whether and how robust DNA repair machinery promotes longevity is elusive. Here, we demonstrate that activation of ataxiatelangiectasia mutated (ATM) via low dose of chloroquine (CQ) promotes DNA damage clearance, rescues age-related metabolic shift, and extends lifespan in nematodes and mice. Molecularly, ATM phosphorylates SIRT6 deacetylase and thus prevents MDM2-mediated ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation. Extra copies of Sirt6 in Atm-/-mice extend lifespan, accompanied with restored metabolic homeostasis. In a progeria mouse model with low ATM protein level and DNA repair capacity, the treatment with CQ ameliorates premature aging features and extends lifespan. Thus, our data highlights a pro-longevity role of ATM, for the first time establishing direct causal links between robust DNA repair machinery and longevity, and providing therapeutic strategy for progeria and age-related metabolic diseases.All rights reserved. No reuse allowed without permission.(which was not peer-reviewed) is the author/funder, who has granted bioRxiv a license to display the preprint in perpetuity.