Sex-specific regulation of metabolic health and vertebrate lifespan by AMP biosynthesis

Gwendoline Astre, Tehila Atlan, Uri Goshtchevsky, Kobi Shapira, Adi Oron-Gottesman, Tomer Levy, Ariel Velan, Margarita Smirnov, Joris Deelen, Erez Y Levanon, Itamar Harel

Research output: Working paper / PreprintPreprint

Abstract

Energy homeostasis is disrupted with age, which then fuels multiple age-related pathologies. The AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is the primary sensor of cellular energy in eukaryotes. However, the genetic regulation of vertebrate aging by AMPK remains poorly understood. Here, we manipulate energy levels in the turquoise killifish by mutating APRT, a key enzyme in AMP biosynthesis. These manipulations produced a male-specific lifespan extension and restored metabolic plasticity. Exploring the observed sex differences using an integrated omics approach implicated the mitochondria as an important player. Mechanistically, APRT regulated mitochondrial functions and AMPK activity, mimicking energy starvation in heterozygous cells. A fasting-like state was also detected, particularly in heterozygous males, which leads to resistance to high-fat diet. Finally, life-long intermittent fasting eliminated the male-specific longevity benefits mediated by the APRT mutation. These observations identify the AMP/AMPK axis as a sex-specific regulator of vertebrate longevity and metabolic health.Competing Interest StatementThe authors have declared no competing interest.
Original languageEnglish
Number of pages76
DOIs
StatePublished - 22 Mar 2022

Publication series

NamebioRxiv
PublisherCold Spring Harbor Laboratory

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Sex-specific regulation of metabolic health and vertebrate lifespan by AMP biosynthesis'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this