Scientific Glossary

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AMPK is activated when the AMP:ATP ratio increases (low energy state). It promotes fatty acid oxidation, glucose uptake, mitochondrial biogenesis, and autophagy — essentially a "fuel-efficiency" program. MOTS-c, exercise, and caloric restriction all activate AMPK. AMPK opposes mTOR, creating a see-saw relationship between growth (mTOR) and maintenance/recycling (AMPK). Many longevity interventions are thought to work partly through AMPK activation.