Optogenetic rejuvenation of mitochondrial membrane potential extends C. elegans lifespan

Preservation of Mitochondrial Membrane Potential is Necessary for Lifespan Extension from Dietary Restriction

“…Our results are also in line with our recent discovery that increased Δψm in itself is sufficient to extend lifespan in C. elegans [14]. We recently proposed an "energetics perspective on geroscience" [58].…”

“…We first confirmed that in vivo Δψ m was decreased by day 4 of adulthood [14] by measuring TMRE fluorescence intensity in the mitochondria-rich pharynx (Figure 1A) [26, 27]. DR by bacterial deprivation (BD) significantly increased Δψ m compared to the fed control (Figure 1B).…”

“…Δψm declines with early age similarly in worms [14] and other animals [15][16][17][18]. We recently reported that increasing Δψm is sufficient to extend healthy lifespan in C. elegans [14]. This led us to consider how DR may affect Δψm specifically, and if changes in Δψm causally affect longevity from DR in worms.…”

“…In yeast, an early indicator of cellular aging is loss of Δψ m [13]. Δψ m declines with early age similarly in worms [14] and other animals [15-18]. We recently reported that increasing Δψ m is sufficient to extend healthy lifespan in C. elegans [14].…”

Bioelectricity: A top-down control model to promote more effective aging interventions

“…This gradient declines with age in various experimental models, leading to reduced energy production and heightened cellular stress. Recent studies have offered direct causal evidence that rescuing the age-related decline in mitochondrial membrane potential through optogenetic rejuvenation can slow the rate of aging and extend healthspan and lifespan in the model organism C. elegans [16].…”