FOXO3
FoxO3: The Longevity Gene
Description
FoxO3, also known as forkhead box O3, is a gene that plays a crucial role in regulating various cellular processes, including cell growth, differentiation, apoptosis, and metabolism. It belongs to the family of FoxO transcription factors, which are known for their involvement in aging, stress resistance, and oxidative defense.
FoxO3 is expressed in a wide range of tissues, including muscle, liver, brain, and fat. It acts as a transcriptional regulator, controlling the expression of genes involved in cellular processes. FoxO3 is particularly active under conditions of stress, such as oxidative stress, starvation, and DNA damage.
Associated Diseases
Dysregulation of FoxO3 has been linked to several diseases, including:
- Cancer: FoxO3 has been found to have both tumor-suppressing and tumor-promoting effects. In some cancers, it promotes cell death and inhibits tumor growth, while in others, it enhances cell proliferation and metastasis.
- Type 2 Diabetes: FoxO3 plays a role in glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity. Impaired FoxO3 function has been associated with the development of type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance.
- Neurodegenerative Diseases: FoxO3 has been implicated in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer‘s and Parkinson‘s diseases. It promotes neuronal survival and protects against oxidative stress.
- Aging: FoxO3 is considered a longevity gene. Studies have shown that increased FoxO3 activity is associated with increased lifespan in various animal models.
Did you Know ?
Approximately 10% of the human population carries a genetic variant in the FoxO3 gene that is associated with increased longevity and reduced risk of age-related diseases.
