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Metabolic Stress Signaling

Meaning

Metabolic Stress Signaling refers to the intricate network of cellular communication pathways activated in response to deviations from metabolic homeostasis, such as nutrient deprivation, energy excess, or accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). These signals act as an alarm system, coordinating a systemic adaptive response that involves changes in gene expression, enzyme activity, and hormone sensitivity to restore balance. Key signaling molecules include AMPK, mTOR, and sirtuins, which integrate information about the cell’s energy status with the broader endocrine environment. Understanding this signaling is fundamental to addressing age-related metabolic decline.