Functional Characterization of a FoxO Target Gene

FoxO transcription factors play important roles in many cellular processes, including regulation of lifespan in invertebrates and potentially in vertebrates. Our understanding of FoxO target genes that play a role in lifespan control is incomplete and C. elegans is a useful system in which to approach this problem since it has a single FoxO ortholog (DAF-16) and a relatively short lifespan. Using multiple unique genetic filters and RNA-sequencing, we have previously identified a list of 47 putative daf-16/FoxO target genes that are likely to play a role in lifespan extension. Y39G8B.7 is one of these genes and showed a significant shortening of lifespan in a long-lived background during a pilot lifespan assay. I have validated Y39G8B.7 as a bona fide daf-16/FoxO target gene and investigated its functional role in longevity.