Abstract
Recent animal studies have demonstrated evidence of the involvement of insulin and insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-I signalling in the control of ageing and longevity. Disruption of insulin/IGF-I signalling pathways significantly extends lifespan in several animal models. Similarities among these signalling pathways in animals and humans raise the possibility that modifications in the IGF-I signalling system could also extend lifespan in humans. However, in contrast to the findings in animal studies, reduced IGF-I activity in humans is not associated with longevity. In humans, low IGF-I activity is even associated with an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease and diabetes. High IGF-I activity in humans is associated with an increased risk of developing cancer. In addition, genetic predisposition and lifestyle play a major role in determining age-associated disease. For each individual there is probably a specific optimal 'setpoint' for the insulin/growth hormone/IGF-I axis which co-determines survival. 2004 S. Karger AG, Basel.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 104-109 |
| Number of pages | 6 |
| Journal | Hormone Research |
| Volume | 62 |
| Issue number | Suppl 3 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - Oct 2004 |
