Ageing, Drosophila melanogaster and Epigenetics

| Posted in: Science

Journal name: The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences
Original article title: Ageing, Drosophila melanogaster and Epigenetics
The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences (MJMS) is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal published online at least six times a year. It covers all aspects of medical sciences and prioritizes high-quality research.
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Original source:

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Author:

Mardani Abdul Halim, Florence Hui Ping Tan, Azali Azlan, Ian Ilham Rasyid, Nurlina Rosli, Shaharum Shamsuddin, Ghows Azzam


The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences:

(A peer-reviewed, open-access journal)

Full text available for: Ageing, Drosophila melanogaster and Epigenetics

Year: 2020 | Doi: 10.21315/mjms2020.27.3.2

Copyright (license): CC BY 4.0


Download the PDF file of the original publication


Summary of article contents:

Introduction

Ageing is a complex phenomenon characterized by the gradual decline of physiological functions that often leads to increased vulnerability to diseases and ultimately, death. Multiple factors, including environmental and lifestyle influences, play significant roles in this process. The study of ageing has evolved over time, and currently, there exists a wide range of theories aimed at understanding the biological mechanisms behind it. Among the prominent advances in this field is the recognition of epigenetic changes—modifications to gene expression that do not involve alterations to the underlying DNA sequence—as crucial contributors to the ageing process. Consequently, organisms like Drosophila melanogaster (fruit flies) have emerged as vital models for researching the interplay between epigenetics and longevity.

Summary of One Important Concept: The Role of Epigenetics in Ageing

Epigenetic modifications, such as DNA methylation and histone modification, represent a significant area of focus in ageing research. These modifications can influence gene expression patterns in different tissues and organs as organisms age. Notably, studies have shown a general decrease in DNA methylation as well as the selective de-repression of certain genes associated with ageing-related diseases. For instance, hypomethylation of DNA is often observed in older organisms, potentially leading to the activation of transposable elements and other detrimental genetic factors. Conversely, specific regions such as CpG islands may exhibit increased methylation, pointing to a complex relationship between different types of epigenetic alterations and ageing. Research in model organisms, particularly Drosophila, provides a clearer understanding of how epigenetic mechanisms affect lifespan and health, highlighting their potential as targets for interventions aimed at mitigating age-related decline.

Conclusion

Understanding the mechanisms underlying ageing is essential for the development of strategies to enhance healthspan and longevity. The integration of epigenetic research into the study of ageing offers promising insights into how gene regulation influences the biological processes associated with getting older. The use of model organisms such as Drosophila melanogaster has significantly advanced our knowledge in this area, revealing critical pathways and mechanisms that can be manipulated to promote healthier ageing. As research continues to evolve, deciphering the intricate connections between epigenetics and longevity will likely pave the way for effective therapeutic approaches to combat ageing-related diseases and improve overall quality of life.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What is the role of epigenetics in the ageing process?

Epigenetics involves modifications that affect gene expression without altering DNA sequences. Changes in DNA methylation and histone modifications have been linked to the ageing process, influencing cellular functions and potentially leading to age-related diseases.

Why is Drosophila melanogaster a preferred model for ageing studies?

Drosophila melanogaster, or fruit fly, is favored due to its short lifespan, genetic amenability, and shared homologous genes with humans. This model allows researchers to study ageing mechanisms effectively and understand diseases related to human genetics.

How does DNA methylation relate to ageing?

DNA methylation changes, including hypomethylation and hypermethylation in specific regions, can influence gene activity as organisms age. These alterations are a hallmark of the ageing process and can serve as predictors of biological age.

What are some methods to extend lifespan in Drosophila?

Research indicates that dietary restriction, modulation of insulin signaling pathways, and genetic interventions targeting chromatin-modifying factors can significantly extend lifespan in Drosophila, showcasing its potential for studying longevity.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Ageing, Drosophila melanogaster and Epigenetics”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Disease:
Disease refers to a pathological condition of a biological system or organism, often characterized by specific symptoms, dysfunctions, or alterations in structure and function. In the context of ageing and epigenetics, understanding disease is crucial, as age-related diseases such as cancer and Alzheimer's significantly impact the quality of life and mortality rates.

2) Science (Scientific):
Science is the systematic enterprise that builds and organizes knowledge in the form of testable explanations and predictions about the universe. In research on ageing and epigenetics, scientific methodologies help elucidate the mechanisms behind these processes, fostering advancements in understanding human health and longevity.

3) Study (Studying):
Studying refers to the investigation of a subject or phenomenon by conducting experiments or observations. In the context of biological sciences, studying mechanisms of aging and epigenetics is critical to reveal insights into health, longevity, and the treatment of age-related diseases.

4) Life:
Life is defined by the characteristics that distinguish physical entities with biological processes from those lacking such functions, such as growth, reproduction, and response to stimuli. Researching life, especially in model organisms, provides insights into biological aging, longevity, and the sustainability of life under various environmental challenges.

5) Nature:
Nature encompasses the physical world, including plants, animals, and the ecosystems they inhabit. In scientific studies, particularly in biology and ecology, understanding nature is essential to comprehend the intricate interplay between organisms, their environments, and the mechanisms driving changes throughout life, especially under stress conditions.

6) Medicine:
Medicine is the field dedicated to diagnosing, treating, and preventing illness and injury using various methodologies, including pharmacology, surgery, and psychotherapy. Advancements in understanding diseases related to ageing, informed by research in epigenetics, have crucial implications for developing effective medical treatments and interventions.

7) Death:
Death is the permanent cessation of all biological functions that sustain a living organism. In the context of ageing research, studying the processes leading to death, including how epigenetic factors contribute to age-related diseases, provides critical insights into mortality and the potential to extend life through medical interventions.

8) Post:
Post often refers to something that comes after an event or period. In scientific research, the term may relate to postmortem studies, examinations performed after death to understand biological processes, or it may signify a discussion surrounding post-translational modifications in proteins that play roles in cellular processes like ageing.

9) Mutation:
Mutation denotes a change in the DNA sequence of an organism. In genetics and epigenetics, mutations can have profound effects on organism development, functionality, longevity, and susceptibility to diseases. Studying mutations helps scientists uncover the roots of diseases, how they manifest, and strategies for therapeutic approaches.

10) Activity:
Activity refers to a specific action or behavior exhibited by living organisms. In biological contexts, such as aging research, analyzing cellular or metabolic activities allows scientists to discern patterns associated with health, longevity, and age-related decline, helping identify potential interventions to enhance quality of life.

11) Family:
Family, in genetic terms, represents a group of related organisms or species sharing common traits. Understanding familial relationships is crucial in evolutionary biology, as it helps scientists trace lineage, genetic inheritance, and the evolutionary significance of traits, particularly in studies involving model organisms like Drosophila.

12) Line:
Line can refer to a lineage or descent, crucial in genetic studies to trace inheritance patterns and genetic variations over generations. In the context of research on aging, tracking genetic lines helps in identifying traits associated with longevity or susceptibility to age-related diseases.

13) Inflammation:
Inflammation is a biological response of body tissues to harmful stimuli, such as pathogens, damaged cells, or irritants. Chronic inflammation is closely linked to aging and age-related diseases, making it an area of focus in research aimed at understanding mechanisms underlying various health conditions and longevity.

14) Cancer:
Cancer is a group of diseases characterized by uncontrolled cell growth and division. Research in the context of aging explores how age-related changes, including epigenetic modifications, contribute to the development and progression of cancer, seeking strategies for prevention, early detection, and therapeutic targets.

15) Panda (Pamda):
In a biological context, Panda may refer metaphorically to the protective mechanisms studied in various organisms, including insights derived from Drosophila models. Research involving physiological and genetic factors contributing to longevity can draw parallels with findings in other species, emphasizing shared biological pathways.

16) Patel:
Patel likely represents an author or contributor within the scientific community that explores genetics, epigenetics, or aging processes. Many studies on aging involve collaboration across different researchers and institutions, where individual contributions often lead to significant advancements in understanding biological systems.

17) Male:
Male refers to the sex of organisms that typically produce small, mobile gametes (sperm). In research, particularly in model organisms, studying sexual dimorphism and the role of sex-specific factors provides essential insights into differences in longevity, disease susceptibility, and reproductive strategies between genders.

18) Species:
Species denotes a group of living organisms capable of interbreeding and producing fertile offspring. In biological and ecological research, studying various species, including model organisms like Drosophila, helps scientists understand evolutionary patterns, genetic foundations of health, and the impact of environmental changes on survival.

19) Beta:
Beta often relates to beta-amyloid, a protein associated with Alzheimer's disease and neurodegenerative processes. Understanding how beta-amyloid aggregation contributes to cognitive decline in aging is a critical focus in neuroscience and pathology, with implications for potential treatments and interventions in age-related diseases.

20) Gaura:
Gaur likely refers to the contribution of researchers, perhaps in the field of genetics or epigenetics. The findings from studies involving model organisms can lead to a better understanding of gene regulation processes, with a broader impact on areas such as health, longevity, and disease resistance.

21) Worm:
Worm typically refers to model organisms such as Caenorhabditis elegans used in biological research. These organisms help researchers investigate fundamental processes related to aging, genetics, and epigenetics, unveiling mechanisms that can potentially relate to more complex organisms, including humans.

22) Interrogating:
Interrogating implies a detailed and systematic investigation or analysis of a subject. In scientific research, interrogating biological mechanisms related to aging and epigenetics provides deeper understanding of the intricate cellular processes involved, potentially leading to innovative strategies for enhancing health and longevity.

23) Accumulation (Accumulating, Accumulate):
Accumulation refers to the gradual gathering or buildup of substances, including cellular components and genetic alterations. In the context of aging, the accumulation of damaged proteins or changes in gene regulation influences cellular health and longevity, which is crucial for understanding age-associated diseases.

24) Knowledge:
Knowledge encompasses the information and understanding gained through research and experience. Accumulating knowledge about aging, genetics, and epigenetics enhances our capacity to address health challenges, foster scientific advancements, and promote interventions aimed at prolonging healthy lifespans and improving quality of life.

25) Evolution:
Evolution pertains to the gradual development of organisms over generations through changes in heritable traits. Understanding evolution is essential for grasping the big picture of biological processes underlying aging and disease, allowing scientists to appreciate the adaptations that enhance survival and reproductive success.

26) Insect:
Insect refers to a diverse class of invertebrates including many commonly used model organisms, such as Drosophila. Studying insects provides valuable insights into fundamental biological processes, including genetics, development, and aging, making them pivotal in understanding basic principles applicable to other organisms and human health.

27) Kumar:
Kumar might signify a researcher or contributor to the understanding of genetics, epigenetics, or biological aging. Through their investigations, they expand scientific knowledge, helping to bridge gaps in understanding the mechanisms that govern longevity, disease manifestation, and genetic regulation in various biological contexts.

28) Chang:
Chang might represent an important figure in scientific research, particularly in genetics or epigenetics. Exploring the contributions of various researchers helps clarify significant advances in the field, aiding in the development of strategies to combat diseases associated with aging and enhance the understanding of biological processes.

29) Table:
Table frequently denotes a structured arrangement of data for easy reference. In scientific communication, tables are essential for summarizing experimental results, findings, and relevant statistics, facilitating comprehension and comparison of complex data involved in studies about aging, genetics, andepigenetics.

30) Rana:
Rana may refer to contributions from authors or researchers in the biological sciences. Their work may focus on topics such as the genetic basis of traits, epigenetic regulation, or aging processes, helping to advance our understanding of biology and inform medical interventions.

31) King:
King likely alludes to a researcher contributing to genomics or aging studies. Individual contributions from scientists play a significant role in piecing together the intricate relationships between genes, environmental factors, and biological aging, leading to novel insights and potential therapeutic avenues.

32) Sahu:
Sahu might refer to a researcher involved in genetics or biomedicine. The collaboration among various scientists enhances our collective understanding of biological processes, highlighting the importance of diverse contributions in advancing knowledge about aging, health, and disease mechanisms.

33) Pari:
Pari could denote a contributor from the scientific community with a focus on genetics or biological systems. Researchers contribute to the broader understanding of biology through their work, which may include studies of aging, epigenetic changes, or the impact of environmental factors on health.

34) Diet:
Diet refers to the sum of food consumed by an organism and is vital in studies related to aging and health. Research indicates that dietary restrictions or specific nutrient intake can influence longevity and age-associated diseases, highlighting the importance of nutrition in maintaining health.

35) Bird:
Bird may symbolize the diversity of organisms studied in evolutionary research. It represents an analogy to other species, emphasizing the significance of comparative studies among different organisms, including insects like Drosophila, to understand broader biological mechanisms, evolutionary processes, and their implications for health.

36) Hand:
Hand commonly refers to action or manipulation, metaphorically representing guidance in scientific exploration. It underscores the collaborative nature of scientific research, where interactions among scientists lead to discoveries about genetics, aging, and epigenetics, emphasizing the importance of teamwork in advancing knowledge.

37) Developing:
Developing refers to the process of growth or evolution over time. In biological contexts, it is crucial for understanding how organisms undergo morphological, physiological, and genetic changes throughout their life cycle, informing studies on aging and genetic expression in model organisms like Drosophila.

38) Education:
Education represents the process of facilitating learning, often vital for advancing scientific knowledge. In research areas focusing on aging and epigenetics, educating current and future scientists enriches the understanding of complex biological processes, fostering an informed workforce adept in addressing health challenges.

39) Toxicity:
Toxicity denotes the degree to which a substance can harm organisms. In aging research, understanding toxicity helps uncover how environmental stressors, chemicals, or biological factors contribute to age-related decline, emphasizing the necessity for studies on exposure and its implications for health and longevity.

40) Quality:
Quality refers to the standard or degree of excellence of a particular characteristic. In aging and health research, it highlights the importance of not only lifespan but also healthspan, promoting the study of factors that contribute positively to living a longer, healthier life.

41) Surface:
Surface often pertains to the outermost layer or part of an organism or structure. In biological research, surface characteristics of cells or tissues can impact interactions with the environment, influencing processes like aging, signal transduction, and molecular exchange within biological systems.

42) Thomas:
Thomas may refer to a notable researcher identified with significant contributions to understanding genetics or biological aging. Highlighting the influence of individual contributions manifests the collective effort in the scientific community geared towards illuminating mechanisms underlying health, longevity, and age-related diseases.

43) Repair:
Repair indicates the processes involved in restoring damaged or dysfunctional components in living organisms. In aging research, understanding repair mechanisms, including DNA repair and cellular restoration, is vital for developing interventions that enhance longevity and counteract age-associated decline and diseases.

44) Pillai:
Pillai may signify an individual contributing to the academic and scientific landscape, particularly within genetics or aging studies. Such contributions enrich understanding of biological mechanisms and foster advancements toward targeted interventions addressing genetic and epigenetic factors influencing longevity and age-related health.

45) Shirna (Sirna):
Sirna could refer to small interfering RNA, a class of double-stranded RNA molecules, crucial in gene regulation and epigenetic modifications. Research on sirna aids in unraveling the complexities of gene expression, providing insights into cellular responses and the underlying mechanisms influencing aging and health.

46) Shahar (Sahar):
Sahar might represent a researcher active in the field of genetics or biology. Collective efforts from various contributors highlight the interconnectivity within biological research aimed at understanding aging processes, disease mechanisms, and molecular pathways pertinent to longevity and health.

47) Glass:
Glass can symbolize clarity and transparency in scientific methods. In biological research, utilizing transparent model organisms allows observation of developmental processes, cellular responses, and genetic mutations, offering visual insights that assist in comprehending complexities related to aging, health, and disease progression.

48) Arrow:
Arrow often signifies direction and focus in scientific inquiry. In the context of aging research, arrows may metaphorically represent the pathway of research aimed at uncovering the biological mechanisms of aging, emphasizing the goal to find solutions to improve life quality and longevity.

49) Doubt:
Doubt refers to uncertainty or lack of conviction about a concept. In research, cultivating healthy skepticism drives scientific inquiry, urging scientists to question findings, leading to refined methodologies and deeper insights into complex processes like aging and epigenetic mechanisms affecting health.

50) Field:
Field represents a specific domain of study within the broader scientific landscape. In the context of biology, fields like epigenetics and aging research contribute significantly to understanding health and longevity, paving the way for scientific breakthroughs that can improve human health outcomes.

51) Birth:
Birth signifies the beginning of life and the starting point of biological processes essential for growth, development, and metabolism. In aging research, understanding the biological mechanisms that unfold from birth to old age is crucial for grasping how organisms undergo changes leading to senescence and longevity.

52) Fight:
Fight commonly denotes the struggle against challenges or adversities. In biological contexts, it represents efforts to combat diseases associated with aging, emphasizing the need for research focusing on genetic, environmental, and epigenetic factors that contribute to resilience, health, and prolonged lifespan.

Other Science Concepts:

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Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Ageing, Drosophila melanogaster and Epigenetics’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:

Alzheimer's disease, Caloric restriction, Circadian rhythm, Drosophila melanogaster, DNA methylation, Epigenetic Change, Histone modification, Age-related disease.

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