The Role of Nonsense-mediated mRNA Decay in Aging.

Eunseok Kang, Hyunwoo C Kwon, Seung-Jae V Lee

Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, 291 Daehak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34141, South Korea.Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, 291 Daehak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34141, South Korea. · pubmed

Paper

Abstract

Aging is a complex biological process that gradually increases vulnerability to death and susceptibility to age-related diseases. Emerging evidence indicates that nonsense-mediated mRNA decay (NMD), a conserved RNA surveillance pathway in eukaryotes, plays a crucial role in the regulation of aging and longevity. In this manuscript, we discuss the role of key NMD factors in aging at the cellular and organismal levels. We highlight the age-related decline in NMD activity in various organisms, which may increase the production of truncated proteins. In addition, we discuss how NMD contributes to longevity and the prevention of cellular senescence. Our review provides valuable information on the molecular mechanisms by which NMD regulates aging, and enhances our understanding of how mRNA quality control, especially NMD, can be utilized for contributing to healthy longevity in humans.

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Research summary

The paper claims that the age-related decline in nonsense-mediated mRNA decay (NMD) activity leads to the accumulation of truncated proteins, thereby contributing to cellular senescence and aging. This review is relevant because it identifies a specific molecular mechanism (RNA quality control) that deteriorates with age and proposes that maintaining NMD activity could be a strategy for promoting healthy longevity, rather than merely treating downstream symptoms.

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