D-Pinitol extends antioxidant activity and longevity of Caenorhabditis elegans via insulin-like signaling pathway

Abstract

D-Pinitol is a cyclic polyol mainly derived from pinaceae and legume. It has the functions of regulating blood glucose balance, anti-inflammation and cardiovascular protection. D-Pinitol is a 3-methoxy analogue of D-chiral-inositol. In our previous study, we found that D-chiral-inositol could prolong the lifespan of Caenorcaditis elegans. D-Pinitol and D-chiral-inositol are commonly used in the treatment of diabetes and polycystic ovary syndrome. We therefore proceeded to investigate the anti-aging effect of D-Pinitol in Caenorhabditis elegans. Our findings demonstrate that D-Pinitol significantly extends the lifespan of Caenorhabditis elegans by 25.41%, enhances body bend frequency, and reduces lipofuscin accumulation. Moreover, it effectively delays neurodegenerative disease development in this model organism. Mechanistically, D-Pinitol promotes gene expression related to insulin-like signaling pathway in Caenorhabditis elegans while also reducing malondialdehyde levels and increasing total antioxidant capacity as well as superoxide dismutase and catalase activities. Consequently, our results indicate that through activation of the insulin-like signaling pathway, D-Pinitol improves both antioxidant capacity and lifespan in Caenorhabditis elegans—a testament to its remarkable antioxidative properties—thus highlighting the significance for further research on this compound.