Long-life Link: Gut protein ties low insulin to longevity
Roundworms low on insulin tend to live longer, and a new study identifies a protein that helps explain the effect. Low insulin levels increase this protein’s activity in the gut, where the protein can extend longevity by helping cells avoid damage.
Humans and other mammals have a similar group of proteins, suggesting that insulin probably affects the proteins’ activity in people as well, the researchers say. The discovery could help explain why calorie-restricted diets extend life span in animals and why diabetes reduces life expectancy.