Genetic variation in insulin/IGF-1 signaling pathways and longevity

The insulin/IGF-1 pathway has been shown to affect lifespan and rate of aging in a variety of animals including worms, flies and mice. Genetic variation in this pathway may also affect human longevity. We review the evidence for the effect of this pathway on longevity with a focus on the genetic studies in humans to date. One gene, FOXO3A, a transcriptional factor homologous to daf-16, has been repeatedly associated with increased lifespan in several studies in different ethnic populations.

Research highlights
► Decreased signaling in insulin/IGF-1 pathway is associated with longer lifespan in worms, flies and mice.
► The insulin/IGF-1 pathway exerts its effect on longevity via FOXO transcriptional factors.
► Polymorphisms in the FOXO3A gene have been associated with longevity in humans.