Does transcription-associated DNA damage limit lifespan? Journal Article


Author: Callegari, A. J.
Article Title: Does transcription-associated DNA damage limit lifespan?
Abstract: Small mammals undergo an aging process similar to that of larger mammals, but aging occurs at a dramatically faster rate. This phenomenon is often assumed to be the result of damage caused by reactive oxygen species generated in mitochondria. An alternative explanation for the phenomenon is suggested here. The rate of RNA synthesis is dramatically elevated in small mammals and correlates quantitatively with the rate of aging among different mammalian species. The rate of RNA synthesis is reduced by caloric restriction and inhibition of TOR pathway signaling, two perturbations that increase lifespan in multiple metazoan species. From bacteria to man, the transcription of a gene has been found to increase the rate at which it is damaged, and a number of lines of evidence suggest that DNA damage is sufficient to induce multiple symptoms associated with normal aging. Thus, the correlations frequently found between the rate of RNA synthesis and the rate of aging could potentially reflect an important role for transcription-associated DNA damage in the aging process. © 2016 Elsevier B.V.
Keywords: dna damage; aging; caloric restriction; gerontology; transcription-associated mutagenesis
Journal Title: DNA Repair
Volume: 41
ISSN: 1568-7864
Publisher: Elsevier Inc.  
Date Published: 2016-05-01
Start Page: 1
End Page: 7
Language: English
DOI: 10.1016/j.dnarep.2016.03.001
PROVIDER: scopus
PUBMED: 27010736
DOI/URL:
Notes: Note -- Export Date: 4 April 2016 -- Source: Scopus
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