Action of protoporphyrin-IX (PP-IX) in the lifespan of Drosophila melanogaster deficient in endogenous antioxidants, Sod and Cat

which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. Protoporphyirin-IX (PP-IX) is a precursor of the biosynthesis of the hemo group, most of the cytochromes and the chlorophylls. The PP-IX is used for medical purposes, and recently a report indicated that it exhibits a dual action since it can decrease or increase the genetic damage caused by N-nitroso-N-ethylurea (ENU) in so-matic cells of Drosophila. PP-IX is known to be able to act as an anti- or pro-oxidant agent. The aim of the present research was to study the role of PP-IX on the lifespan of Drosophila melano-gaster, taking into account the fact that in-creasing levels of ROS can accelerate the agin