Moderation of Neural Excitation Promotes Longevity

An unexpected link between the nervous system and ageing has emerged. They show that overall neuronal excitation is a major determinant of lifespan, and that it is higher in short-lived individuals and lower in the long-lived. The authors also characterize some of the molecular players in this effect, and tie it to a well-known regulator of lifespan: signaling by the hormone insulin or by insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1).