A Decline In Glycolytic ATP Production Is The Fundamental Mechanism Limiting Lifespan; Species With An Optimal Rate Of Decline Over Time Survived
Have you ever wondered why we age, or why some animals live much longer than others? A new perspective suggests that the answer might lie in how our cells produce energy. Our bodies rely on a molecule called ATP, which acts like the energy currency for all cellular activities, from growth to repair. One crucial way cells make this energy is through a process called glycolysis, which provides a quick burst of ATP.
This research proposes that a gradual decrease in this quick energy production over time is a core reason for aging. As cells produce less glycolytic ATP, their ability to perform vital functions, such as dividing to replace old cells or repairing damaged DNA and mitochondria (the cell’s powerhouses), diminishes. This decline contributes to many of the familiar signs of aging we observe.
Interestingly, cells that are considered “immortal,” like many cancer cells, maintain a consistently high level of glycolytic ATP production. Furthermore, the theory suggests an evolutionary reason for this decline: natural selection favored species where this energy production decreased at an optimal rate. This balance allowed for efficient energy use across generations, ensuring the survival and adaptation of the species.
This concept helps explain several mysteries, including why most animals have a finite lifespan, why lifespans vary so much between different species (like the exceptionally long-lived naked mole rat, which maintains high glycolytic activity), and the seemingly endless proliferation of cancer cells. Understanding this fundamental mechanism could open new avenues for developing strategies to promote healthier aging and potentially extend human lifespan.
Source: link to paper