The IGF System and Aging.
Abstract
There is strong evidence that IGF signaling is involved in fundamental aspects of the aging process. However, the extracellular part of the IGF system is complex with various receptors, ligand effectors, high-affinity IGF-binding proteins, proteinases, and endogenous inhibitors that all, along with their biological context, must be considered. The IGF system components are evolutionarily conserved, underscoring the importance of understanding this system in physiology and pathophysiology. This review will briefly describe the different components of the IGF system and then discuss past and current literature regarding IGF and aging, with a focus on cellular senescence, model organisms of aging, centenarian genetics, and 3 age-related diseases-pulmonary fibrosis, Alzheimer disease, and macular degeneration-in appropriate murine models and in humans. Commonalities in mechanism suggest conditions where IGF system components may be disease drivers and potential targets in promoting healthy aging in humans.
The following analysis is generated by AI and may contain errors. It is separate from the authors’ abstract and is not peer review.
Research summary
The paper discusses the role of the IGF system in aging and its potential as a target for promoting healthy aging. The focus on the IGF system's involvement in fundamental aging processes and its implications for age-related diseases suggests a solid contribution to understanding longevity.
Author of this paper? Send a correction.