Fruit fly studies back Japanese saying about eating in moderation
TOKYO -- A team from Japan's comprehensive research institution Riken identified for the first time a protein that extends lifespan when diets are res
Japanese researchers from the Riken comprehensive research institution have identified a protein that extends lifespan when diets are restricted early in life, using fruit fly experiments. The findings support the Japanese saying, "Eat until you are eight-tenths full, and you won't need a doctor." The study, conducted by a team led by Fumiaki Obata, found that fruit flies with restricted food intake during their larval stage lived about 20% longer than those without dietary restrictions, with lifespans reaching up to 60 days for males and 70 days for females.
The researchers discovered that amino acids are stored in ribosomes through the action of the protein Lsp2, which plays a role in regulating lifespan. While the study's implications for humans are unclear, the existence of proteins similar to Lsp2 in humans suggests potential for developing dietary methods to promote health.
Brief written by urgent.news from The Mainichi's own syndicated text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
