Unfortunately, it is not enough to simply switch on or off these central genes in order to halt the ageing process. However, it is no surprise that this switch was discovered in C. The fact that this switch governs completely different survival mechanisms than those previously associated with the hormone is regarded as a scientific sensation.

In cooperation with scientists from the Harvard Medical School, the researchers from Freiburg have discovered another insulin-controlled switch that controls a whole genetic network, which protects the cells against their own “exhaust gases” and is thus able to prolong the lifespan. Already the first “ageing gene” discovered by Baumeister’s research group, has turned out to be key in recognising metabolic stress and in initiating protective measures, at least as long as enough insulin is available. Insulin and its signalling pathway not only regulate the metabolism, but also control the stress response in the body. The more active insulin in the body, the more mechanisms that would be able to repair the damage caused by the aggressive oxygen radicals are suppressed. This drives the metabolism, which leads to the generation of more and more damaging oxygen molecules.

Abundance entails a vicious circle: the more calories in a meal, the more insulin is required.