Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) Genes and Aging in Drosophila

Abstract

Since their discovery by McCord and Fridovich the superoxide dismutase (SOD) enzymes have been of particular interest to the field of aging. The Drosophila SOD genes are required for normal oxidative stress resistance and life span, and have been targets for investigation of mechanisms of aging. The ability of SOD genes to affect Drosophila life span is dependent upon the genetic background, including the sex of the animal, as well as the dietary environment. There is increasing understanding of the role of the SODs in signaling pathways that modulate aging. The Cu/ZnSOD is important in linking diet to life span, and MnSOD can activate the mitochondrial unfolded protein response and increase life span. The SOD genes also modulate survival in Drosophila models of human disease. The conservation of SOD genes and functions in Drosophila combined with the availability of powerful genetic and transgenic technologies promises to keep Drosophila at the forefront of research on aging and the role of SOD.