[Aspects of mammalian aging from alphaklotho study].

ABSTRACT

Since the discovery of alphaklotho-mutant mice, it has been questioned whether the responsible gene, alphaklotho, makes any effect on 'intrinsic aging' process. So far we found that alphaKlotho regulates transcellular calcium transport by mediating Na,K-ATPase activity and dominates mineral-regulating hormones such as PTH, vitamin D and FGF23. A new concept is now emerged that alphaklotho integrates mineral homeostasis. Findings of human cases with mineral disorders revealed impairment of alphaklotho expression as a pathological cause. Mineral metabolic system contributes to health and thus its disruption should result in acceleration of aging and disease.