Valter Longo

Biography of Valter Longo, an Italian-American biogerontologist and cell biologist

Valter Longo in 2022

Valter Longo is an Italian-American biogerontologist and cell biologist known for his research on the role of fasting and diet in promoting longevity and healthspan. He is a professor of gerontology and biological sciences at the University of Southern California (USC) and the director of the USC Longevity Institute.

Early life and education

Valter Longo was born in Genoa, Italy. He moved to the United States to pursue higher education, where he attended the University of North Texas for his undergraduate studies. Longo later earned his Ph.D. in biochemistry from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where he studied under the mentorship of Roy Walford, a pioneer in the field of caloric restriction and aging.

Career

Longo's research focuses on the mechanisms of aging and the development of dietary interventions to promote healthy aging. He has contributed significantly to the understanding of how fasting and fasting-mimicking diets can influence cellular protection, regeneration, and longevity.

Fasting and longevity

Longo is best known for his work on the fasting-mimicking diet (FMD), a dietary regimen designed to mimic the effects of fasting while providing essential nutrients. His studies have shown that periodic fasting can reduce risk factors for aging and age-related diseases, such as diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular disease.

Research on yeast and humans

Longo's research began with studies on yeast, a model organism for aging research, where he discovered that reducing the activity of certain genes could extend lifespan. He later translated these findings to mammalian systems, including humans, demonstrating the potential of dietary interventions in promoting healthspan.

Publications and media

Valter Longo has published numerous scientific articles and books on aging and nutrition. His book, "The Longevity Diet," outlines his dietary recommendations for promoting longevity and reducing the risk of age-related diseases. Longo's work has been featured in various media outlets, highlighting the potential of dietary interventions in extending healthy lifespan.

Awards and recognition

Longo has received several awards for his contributions to the field of aging research, including the Ellison Medical Foundation New Scholar Award in Aging and the Nathan Shock Center of Excellence in the Basic Biology of Aging award.

Related pages

• Fasting-mimicking diet
• Caloric restriction
• Longevity
• Biogerontology