Abstract
A mutation in a subunit of complex I of the mitochondrial electron transport chain (gas-1) causes Caenorhabditis elegans to be hypersensitive to volatile anesthetics and oxygen as well as shortening lifespan. We hypothesized that changes in mitochondrial respiration or reactive oxygen species production cause these changes. Therefore, we compared gas-1 to other mitochondrial mutants to identify the relative importance of these two aspects of mitochondrial function in determining longevity. Lifespans of gas-1 and mev-1 were decreased compared with N2, while that of clk-1 was increased. Rates of oxidative phosphorylation were decreased in all three mutants, but the ROS damage was decreased only in clk-1. Suppressors of gas-1 increased rates of oxidative phosphorylation, decreased oxidative damage to mitochondrial proteins and increased lifespan. Two strains containing combinations of mutations predicted to have very decreased complex I function, had unexpectedly long lifespans. We conclude that mitochondrial changes in lifespan appear to be mediated primarily by changes in oxidative damage rather than by changes in rates of oxidative phosphorylation. In contrast, the effects of mitochondrial changes on anesthetic sensitivity appear to be mediated by both altered respiration and oxidative damage.
Published Version
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
