Genetic variability in responses to caloric restriction in animals and in regulation of metabolism and obesity in humans

Panel 5 focused on genetic factors that might mediate or moderate the effec ts of caloric restriction (CR) on longevity. Panel members stated that curr ently there is limited information directly addressing these issues. Theref ore, they focused attention on what studies could be done. In addition, the panel believed that certain conceptual issues merited clarification and fo cused attention on this issue. Human studies and studies of nonhuman model organisms were discussed. The panel found at least three reasons why it wou ld be valuable to find genes that influence the (putative) longevity-promot ing effect of CR in humans. Such knowledge would offer: (a) the ability to predict individual responses to CR; (b) increased understanding of physiolo gical mechanisms; and (c) the potential to develop mechanism-based interven tions to promote longevity or healthy aging. In addition, the panel emphasi zed several macro-level recommendations regarding research strategies to av oid, research strategies to emphasize, and resources needing development.