A conserved role of flavin-containing monooxygenases in promoting stress resistance, health and longevity
Dr. Leiser’s research focuses on the ability of cells and organisms to resist multiple types of stress. Stress resistance is achieved by the activation of genetic stress response pathways that control many aspects of cells and organisms and have been linked with the long-term survival of many animals.
Dr. Leiser and his team are studying a family of enzymes called flavin-containing monooxygenases (FMOs) that have been linked with metabolism, stress resistance and longevity in model organisms. Interestingly, these proteins are also linked with a disease in humans known as fish odor syndrome, where people are unable to metabolize a specific compound (trimethylamine) and thus smell of fish. FMOs are an ancient family of proteins whose role in health has been underestimated for years. Dr. Leiser’s work will help clarify their role in metabolism, health and longevity in multiple organisms.