Seung J Oh

US Patent:

7932049, Apr 26, 2011

Filed:

Mar 8, 2006

Appl. No.:

11/372469

Inventors:

Heidi A. Tissenbaum - Wayland MA, US
Seung Wook Oh - Lewisville TX, US

Assignee:

University of Massachusetts - Boston MA

International Classification:

C12Q 1/48
G01N 33/53

US Classification:

435 15, 435 71

Abstract:

The present invention is based at least in part on the discovery of a role for the JNK signaling pathway in longevity. In particular, the present inventors have shown that overexpression of c-jun N-terminal kinase 1 (jnk-1) extends lifespan and that said extended lifespan is associated with DAF-16 phosphorylation by JNK-1 and the consequent DAF-16 localization to the nucleus. Accordingly, the present invention features methods of identifying modulators of longevity in assays featuring organisms and/or cells having a JNK signaling pathway and, optionally, an IR signaling pathway. Also featured is an in vitro method of identifying an agent capable of enhancing longevity featuring an assay composition having a JNK signaling pathway molecule and insulin signaling pathway molecule. Further featured are therapeutic methods for the use of JNK signaling pathway modulators to enhance longevity, to prevent or reduce obesity and to prevent or treat type II diabetes.