Transcriptomic analysis of mitohormesis associated with lifespan extension in Caenorhabditis elegans

Mild mitochondrial stress can produce positive effects, a phenomenon referred to as \"mitohormesis.\" This process involves activation of signaling pathways such as the mitochondrial unfolded protein response (UPRmt), which helps restore mitochondrial function and has also been linked to improved health and extended lifespan across various model organisms. In C. elegans, mitohormesis can be triggered through several means—including inhibition of the electron transport chain (ETC), reduction in mitochondrial protein translation, or impaired mitochondrial import—all of which can lead to UPRmt-mediated lifespan extension. However, not all triggers of UPRmt result in increased longevity. For instance, while inhibiting ETC complex II strongly activates UPRmt, it has not been associated with lifespan extension. These findings raise the possibility that UPRmt activation alone may not directly promote longevity. In this study, we aim to investigate this complexity by examining how different mitochondrial stressors that induce UPRmt influence the lifespan of C. elegans. We use RNA-sequencing to profile genome-wide transcriptional responses, with the goal of identifying transcriptomic patterns that may clarify the relationship between UPRmt and longevity.