Speaker: Rong Yuan, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine associate professor of the Geriatric Research in the Department of Internal Medicine

Title: "Genetic insights into development and aging in mice"

Abstract: Mouse genetic resources provide invaluable models for uncovering the mechanisms of human aging and exploring approaches to extending lifespan. Utilizing inbred strains, heterogeneous colonies, and genetically engineered models, our studies have revealed critical insights into the relationship between development and aging. Notably, we demonstrated a tradeoff between early developmental processes and aging, highlighting the potential for targeting developmental pathways during early life to achieve lasting effects on aging outcomes. Importantly, by leveraging developmental traits as markers, we identified novel genetic loci and genes that may regulate the aging process, offering promising therapeutic targets for age-related diseases and lifespan extension. Furthermore, comparisons of lifespan and physiological features in mice with human aging patterns, such as the female lifespan advantage, revealed parallels that bridge model systems and human biology. These findings enhance our understanding of aging biology and emphasize actionable targets for interventions aimed at improving healthspan and lifespan.

Host: Ping Kang, adjunct assistant professor in genetics, development and cell biology