Enhanced C/EBPα function extends healthspan and lifespan in the African turquoise killifish.

In a joint study, the Berezikov and Calkhoven labs explored how a specific change in a gene called CEBPA affects aging and health in a small and short-lived fish species known as Nothobranchius furzeri. This change improved the function of a protein called C/EBPα, which plays a role in aging. As a result, male fish lived longer and stayed healthier as they aged.
The researchers also found that the genetic change activated biological pathways linked to longer life in other animals, suggesting that the way the CEBPA gene is regulated might be a common mechanism across species. This discovery could help us better understand how aging works and how to promote healthier aging in humans.

Müller, C., Muck, J.S., Ustyantsev, K., Kortman, G., Hartung, J., Berezikov, E. and Calkhoven, C.F. (2025) Enhanced C/EBPα function extends healthspan and lifespan in the African turquoise killifish. Aging Cell. DOI: 10.1111/acel.70211