Unpicking the effects of FGF21 on longevity

Subjects

Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) is a hormone that is known to have positive effects on metabolism and lifespan. However, so far it has not been possible to isolate the effects of FGF21 on longevity from its developmental functions. A new study published in Cell Metabolism has attempted to address this issue by generating a transgenic mouse model with adipocyte-specific overexpression of FGF21 that begins in adulthood.

Furthermore, the transgenic mice did not develop obesity on a HFD and the loss of lean mass that is often seen with ageing was not observed. The transgenic mice also had metabolic improvements compared with the control mice, including improved insulin sensitivity and cholesterol levels, and reduced liver steatosis. Importantly, growth and energy expenditure were not affected in the aged transgenic mice. The researchers also found that the visceral adipose tissue of the aged transgenic mice had lower levels of inflammatory immune cells and lipotoxic ceramides than visceral adipose tissue from control mice.

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