Research into various animal species shows that a lower resting metabolic rate often goes hand in hand with a longer lifespan. Resting metabolic rate means the amount of energy an organism uses at rest for its basic processes. In larger animals, this resting metabolic rate is on average lower and as a result they usually live longer. Naked mole-rats depart from this rule in an interesting way.
These remarkable mole-rats are small, but live much longer than comparable rodents. Their resting metabolic rate remains remarkably low throughout their lives, which may help to limit age-related damage in cells. This idea fits with the theory that expending less energy at rest leads to fewer free radicals, the harmful substances that can damage cells.
Free radicals are formed in the energy-producing parts of cells, the mitochondria, amongst other places. Due to a lower energy consumption, these mole rats produce fewer harmful substances, which may contribute to their long lives. In addition, the composition of cell membranes also plays a role; these are thought to be more resistant to damage in naked mole rats.
Although this insight helps in understanding why some animals live longer than others, it remains complex. There are always exceptions and much remains unknown about the precise mechanisms that influence the ageing process. Even so, research into the naked mole-rat offers a valuable starting point for healthy ageing in humans.
For anyone who wants to live consciously and age healthily, it is good to realise that lowering daily resting energy expenditure can play a positive role in cell preservation.
Source: Reason
