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In contrast to the free radical theory, it is assumed that an increased formation of reactive oxygen species in the mitochondria, associated with caloric restriction, causes an adaptive response that enhances stress resistance.<ref name="PMID20350594">PMID 20350594</ref> | In contrast to the free radical theory, it is assumed that an increased formation of reactive oxygen species in the mitochondria, associated with caloric restriction, causes an adaptive response that enhances stress resistance.<ref name="PMID20350594">PMID 20350594</ref> | ||
===Activation of Sirtuin-1 and Reduced Expression of the mTOR Receptor === | |||
Signal-regulating enzymes such as [[SIRT1|Sirtuin-1 (Sirt1)]] in mammals, or [[SIRT2|Sirtuin ''Sir2'']] in yeasts, may play a role.<ref>PMID 25349818</ref> The cells of calorically restricted test animals produce Sirt1 in larger quantities.<ref name="PMID19713122">PMID 19713122.</ref> An increased production of Sirt1, in turn, reduces the expression of the mTOR receptor (''mammalian Target of Rapamycin''),<ref>PMID 20169165.</ref> which is also associated with the aging process. The lifespan of mice can be significantly extended by administering [[Rapamycin]], which docks to the mTOR receptor.<ref name="PMID20331443">PMID 20331443.</ref><ref>D. E. Harrison et al.: ''Rapamycin fed late in life extends lifespan in genetically heterogeneous mice.'' In: ''Nature'' 460, 2009, pp. 392–395. PMID 19587680, {{PMC|2786175}}.</ref> [[Melatonin]] is also being studied due to its activation of Sirtuin.<ref name="PMID 25824609" /> | |||
==Benefits of Caloric Restriction== | ==Benefits of Caloric Restriction== | ||
Research suggests that caloric restriction may offer several health benefits, including: | Research suggests that caloric restriction may offer several health benefits, including: |