Supplementation with Thymbra spicata extract ameliorates lifespan, body-weight gain and Paraquat-induced oxidative stress in Drosophila melanogaster: An age- and sex-related study

Abstract

Aging represents a decline in function over time. Polyphenols are dietary antioxidants that could exert beneficial effects on aging. This study investigated the effects of dietary supplementation with two extracts from Thymbra spicata L. aerial parts on the lifespan, body-weight control, and antioxidant responses of Drosophila melanogaster cohorts distinguished for age and sex. The aqueous extract extended the lifespan of young female flies, and this pro-longevity potential was associated with a reduction in the body-weight gain. Furthermore, the aqueous extract promoted the antioxidant defense when young females were exposed to Paraquat by reducing oxidative stress and mortality. This study provides the first insight into the beneficial effects of T. spicata supplementation in an animal model, suggesting that the healthy effect could mainly depend on strengthening the antioxidant defenses which reflect on the lifespan. Further investigations will better clarify the mechanisms and potential of T. spicata as nutraceutics in anti-aging strategies.

Keywords

• Thymbra spicata extract
• Dietary polyphenols
• Drosophila melanogaster
• Aging
• Body weight
• Antioxidant defense