The present invention is based at least in part on the discovery of a role for the JNK signaling pathway in
longevity. In particular, the present inventors have shown that modulation of the c-jun N-terminal
kinase (JNK) signaling pathway in an
organism, optionally in combination with modulation of the
insulin receptor (IR) signaling pathway, can enhance
longevity in an
organism. Accordingly, the present invention features methods of identifying modulators of
longevity in assays featuring organisms and / or cells having either a functional or deregulated JNK signaling pathway and, optionally, a functional or deregulated IR signaling pathway. Also featured is an
in vitro method of identifying an agent capable of enhancing longevity featuring an
assay composition having a JNK signaling pathway molecule and
insulin signaling pathway molecule. Further featured are therapeutic methods for the use of JNK signaling pathway modulators to enhance longevity.