Multiple mild heat-shocks decrease the Gompertz component of mortality in Caenorhabditis elegans

Exp Gerontol. 2009 Sep;44(9):607-12. doi: 10.1016/j.exger.2009.06.007. Epub 2009 Jul 4.

Abstract

Exposure to mild heat-stress (heat-shock) can significantly increase the life expectancy of the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. A single heat-shock early in life extends longevity by 20% or more and affects life-long mortality by decreasing initial mortality only; the rate of increase in subsequent mortality (Gompertz component) is unchanged. Repeated mild heat-shocks throughout life have a larger effect on life span than does a single heat-shock early in life. Here, we ask how multiple heat-shocks affect the mortality trajectory in nematodes and find increases of life expectancy of close to 50% and of maximum longevity as well. We examined mortality using large numbers of animals and found that multiple heat-shocks not only decrease initial mortality, but also slow the Gompertz rate of increase in mortality. Thus, multiple heat-shocks have anti-aging hormetic effects and represent an effective approach for modulating aging.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Aging / physiology*
  • Animals
  • Caenorhabditis elegans
  • Heat-Shock Proteins / metabolism*
  • Heat-Shock Response / physiology*
  • Hot Temperature
  • Longevity* / physiology
  • Stress, Physiological / physiology*
  • Survival Analysis

Substances

  • Heat-Shock Proteins