Aging Model Based on Drosophila melanogaster: Mechanisms and Perspectives

Abstract

Aging is a multifaceted biological process characterized by a gradual decline in physiological functions, ultimately resulting in reduced reproductive capacity and eventual death of the organism. For over a century, Drosophila melanogaster, the common fruit fly, has served as a pivotal model for investigating the underlying mechanisms of aging, owing to its relatively short lifespan, ease of genetic manipulation, and high degree of conservation of molecular pathways with higher organisms. This article delves into the principal aspects of utilizing Drosophila in aging research, encompassing the influence of dietary restrictions, insulin/IGF-1, mTOR, and AMPK signaling pathways, as well as the roles of various tissues—such as the intestine and muscles—in modulating lifespan. Special emphasis is placed on the interplay between metabolic and epigenetic factors that determine the rate of aging and on the potential applications of these findings in the development of anti-aging therapeutic strategies.