Exposing the 1 mm-long worm C. elegans to free radicals can actually prolong its life span, contrary to popular understanding. (Photo credit: Siegfried Hekimi)
A new study shows that raising the level of free radicals in the nematode worm C. elegans actually increases its lifespan, contrary to popular belief. Free radicals are the reactive molecules that sometimes damage DNA and the ones that antioxidants are supposed to fight against – could in some cases help us live longer.
The authors show that despite their reactive nature, free radicals act as signalling molecules that trigger cell mechanisms which alleviate stress, for example devoting more energy to repair and maintenance as opposed to growth. This keeps the worm alive under stressful conditions.
Original research paper published in the the journal Cell on May 8, 2014.
Names and affiliations of selected authors
Siegfried Hekimi, McGill University, Quebec
