Lifespan Extension

Study identifies protein linking calorie restriction to longer lifespan in fruit flies

Researchers studying dietary restriction in fruit flies report identifying a specific protein that appears to mediate the link between reduced food intake and extended lifespan. The finding, described in a new study, points to a molecular mechanism that may help explain how caloric restriction slows aging in this model organism.

nature.com · 2026-09-23

Study links fly gene Lsp2 to mTORC1-driven ribosomal protein translation and lifespan

Researchers studying Drosophila found that mutating the Lsp2 gene altered translation of TOP mRNAs, particularly those encoding ribosomal proteins, and changed ribosomal subunit ratios and lifespan compared to control flies. They further showed that removing the translational repressor 4E-BP (Thor) shifted how dietary protein levels affect lifespan, without changing mTORC1 activity or overall protein synthesis rates, indicating a specific rather than general translational effect.

nature.com · 2026-09-23