Hormonal influences on aging and lifespan

Abstract

This chapter summarizes the present understanding of the role of IGF-1, insulin, and homologous signaling in the control of aging in a worm, C elegans, a fly, Drosophila melanogaster, in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and in the mouse, and identifies some of the known or suspected mechanisms linking the actions of these hormones to longevity. The activities of these hormones and their receptors, and their various effects on metabolism and growth are covered. A discussion of the applicability of these findings among all species investigated, including the human, is also included. © 2010 Springer Science+Business Media B.V.