Leptin and anti-aging action of caloric restriction.
Evolutional theories of aging and caloric restriction (CR) in animals predict the presence of neuroendocrine signals to divert the limited energy resources from energy-costly physiologic processes such as reproduction to those essential for survival in response to food shortage. The diversion of energy and subsequent molecular mechanisms might extend the lifespan. A growing body of evidence indicates that leptin, a peptide hormone secreted from adipocytes, has a key role in neuroendocrine adaptation against life-threatening stress such as fasting. The present review discusses the potential role of leptin in the anti-aging action of CR. Although several alternative signaling pathways might also mediate the anti-aging action of CR, leptin signaling could be a substantial pathway in the CR action. Research on neuroendocrine mechanisms of CR is warranted, because such efforts might provide clues to the regulation of the aging process in humans.
Shimokawa
I
I
Department of Pathology, Nagasaki University School of Medicine, 1-12-4 Sakamoto, Nagasaki City 852-8523, Japan. shimo@net.nagasaki-u.ac.jp
Higami
Y
Y
D000375:Aging / Q000502:physiology*; D000818:Animals; D004038:Diet, Reducing; D002149:Energy Intake / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D020738:Leptin / Q000097:blood / Q000502:physiology*; D008136:Longevity; D009490:Neurosecretory Systems / Q000502:physiology*
D020738:Leptin