Dietary Restriction
Dietary restriction (DR) has been shown to increase lifespan in several different species, including yeast, worms, flies, and mice, however, the mechanisms involved are not clear. Our work on cell senescence in-vitro and by others has shown the importance of mitochondrial dysfunction and the possible relevance of cell senescence for ageing in-vivo. Therefore, we hypothesise that dietary restriction:
- improves mitochondrial function by acceleration of mitochondrial turnover and decreased mtDNA damage.
- minimizes cell senescence and associated production of reactive oxygen species in various tissues of ageing mice.
- counteracts age-related epigenetic changes, especially in promoter methylation and thus associated changes in gene expression patterns.
To relate these changes to whole-body physiology, we also analyse energy balance and body fat distribution and continuously monitor core body temperature and physical activity of the animals.
Current projects:
- Mechanisms of dietary restriction in mice – cell senescence
Project Leader(s): Thomas von Zglinicki - Mechanisms of dietary restriction in mice – mitochondrial function
Project Leader(s): Thomas von Zglinicki - Mechanisms of dietary restriction in mice – epigenetics
Project Leader(s): Thomas von Zglinicki, Prof John Mathers - Mechanisms of dietary restriction in mice – whole body physiology
Project Leader(s): Thomas von Zglinicki - Characterisation of signalling pathways during caloric restriction and in p16 negative hTERT overexpressing fibroblasts.
Project Leader(s): Gabriele Saretzki
