Evolutionary Ecology of Aging
Speaker
Dario Valenzano - Leibniz Institute on Aging - Fritz Lipmann Institute (FLI), Jena
Evolutionary Ecology of Aging
Abstract
Just as studying distant galaxies sheds light on the universe’s evolution, studying organisms with unique adaptations reveals fundamental principles of life’s evolution. African killifishes have become a powerful model system for addressing key questions in biology, ranging from the molecular basis of developmental adaptations to the genetics and evolution of aging. Killifish evolved in a range of environments, from rainforest to savannah water holes undergoing seasonal desiccation. To cope with these challenges, killifish embryos can enter diapause—a suspended developmental state—until conditions become favorable for hatching. Annual killifish from arid environments display naturally short lifespans and exhibit a variety of age-related changes, including neurodegeneration, inflammation, fibrosis, immune decline, and dysbiosis. In my talk, I will show how studying killifish ecology and evolution provides new perspectives on the links between species’ lifespan, pastdemographic constraints, and host-microbiome interactions—offering fresh insights into aging biology and potential anti-aging interventions.
In presence and also available on Zoom.
Passcode: 440251