Isolating the direct effects of growth hormone on lifespan and metabolism in mice.
Abstract
Prior studies have shown that interrupting the growth hormone/insulin-like growth factor-I (GH/IGF-I) signaling axis extends laboratory mouse lifespan, but confounding effects of additional gene or hormone deficiencies that exist in commonly used models of GH/IGF-I interruption obscure the specific effect of GH on longevity. We address this issue by using mice with a specific knockout of the GH gene and show that both males and females on a mixed genetic background display extended lifespans resulting from GH deficiency. Our physiological assessment of these mice revealed that in addition to weighing significantly less and displaying significantly greater body fat (as a percentage of body weight), GH deficient mice display significant impairments in glucose metabolism and preferential fat utilization. These data provide strong evidence that GH deficiency is directly responsible for the altered nutrient utilization and extended lifespan that is commonly observed in mouse models of GH/IGF-I interruption.
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Research summary
The paper investigates the direct effects of growth hormone deficiency on lifespan and metabolism in mice, which is pertinent to understanding mechanisms of aging and potential interventions for lifespan extension. While the findings contribute solid evidence regarding the role of GH in longevity, the study primarily builds on existing knowledge rather than presenting groundbreaking insights, thus limiting its overall impact.
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