Longevity Signaling Rhythms refer to the temporally organized, cyclical patterns of molecular activity that govern the cellular processes directly linked to biological aging and lifespan extension. These rhythms include the diurnal oscillation of key nutrient-sensing pathways, such as the mTOR and AMPK pathways, and the rhythmic expression of sirtuin genes. Maintaining a robust, high-amplitude rhythm in these signaling cascades is considered critical for optimizing DNA repair, promoting autophagy, and enhancing cellular stress resistance. Dysregulation of these rhythms is a core feature of age-related decline.
Origin
This specialized term integrates the fields of chronobiology and geroscience, reflecting the recent understanding that the timing of biological events is paramount for healthspan. It arises from research showing that intermittent fasting and time-restricted feeding impact aging pathways by leveraging these inherent rhythms. The concept bridges the molecular clock with established mechanisms of life extension.
Mechanism
The rhythms operate by linking the external environment, particularly the feeding-fasting cycle, to the internal cellular machinery. During the fasting phase, AMPK signaling is typically activated, which promotes cellular cleanup via autophagy and enhances mitochondrial biogenesis. Conversely, the feeding phase often activates mTOR, supporting growth and repair. The rhythmic cycling of these opposing pathways, orchestrated by the master circadian clock, ensures that periods of repair and growth are temporally segregated, thereby maximizing cellular efficiency and promoting longevity.
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