Plasmalogen-Containing Scallop-Derived Lipids Affect the Endocrine System of <i>Caenorhabditis elegans</i> Nematodes and Improved Its Lifespan and Health

To analyze the effects of plasmalogen-containing scallop-derived lipids on lifespan, health span, and neuroendocrine status, we assessed the effects of these lipids on the lifespan, health (motility), aging (lipofuscin accumulation), oxidative stress resistance, and neurotransmitter (dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin) levels of Caenorhabditis elegans. The administration of scallop-derived lipids extended the lifespan of C. elegans and suppressed the age-related reduction in movement. Additionally, its oxidative stress resistance increased, despite the higher intracellular levels of reactive oxygen species. Moreover, scallop-derived lipids reduced the accumulation of lipofuscin, which is an aging marker in nematodes, and increased the levels of neurotransmitters (dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin). Furthermore, the gene expression levels of pmk-1 (p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase 1) and daf-16 (dauer formation-16) were increased. These results indicate that plasmalogen-containing scallop-derived lipids may extend the lifespan and health span of C. elegans, and affect its neurotransmitter secretion.