Data from: Genetic perturbation of key central metabolic genes extends life span in Drosophila and affects response to dietary restriction

There is a connection between nutrient inputs, energy-sensing pathways,
lifespan variation and aging. Despite the role of metabolic enzymes in
energy homeostasis and their metabolites as nutrient signals, little is
known about how their gene expression impacts lifespan. In this report, we
use P-element mutagenesis in Drosophila to study the effect on lifespan of
reductions in expression of seven central metabolic enzymes, and contrast
the effects on normal diet and dietary restriction. The major observation
is that for five of seven genes, the reduction of gene expression extends
lifespan on one or both diets. Two genes are involved in redox balance,
and we observe that lower activity genotypes significantly extend
lifespan. The hexokinases also show extension of lifespan with reduced
gene activity. Since both affect the ATP/ADP ratio, this connects with the
role of AMP-activated protein kinase as an energy sensor in regulating
lifespan and mediating caloric restriction. These genes possess
significant expression variation in natural populations, and our
experimental genotypes span this level of natural activity variation. Our
studies link the readout of energy state with the perturbation of the
genes of central metabolism and demonstrate their effect on lifespan.