Aqueous extracts and protein concentrate of Tenebrio molitor prolong the lifespan of Caenorhabditis elegans under environmental stress conditions

Background: Tenebrio molitor, commonly known as the mealworm, is globally accepted and recognized as an edible insect with a high nutritional profile and potential health benefits. Mealworms are sustainable protein sources for addressing future food security. This study aimed to investigate the anti-aging properties of mealworm aqueous extracts and protein concentrate using Caenorhabditis elegans as a model organism. Results: C. elegans treated with mealworm protein concentrate and aqueous extracts (60 mu g mL(-1)) exhibited a significant enhancement of lifespan by 10-26.4% (P <= 0.05) under normal conditions. Stress tolerance survival of the treated nematodes was improved by 83-91% (P <= 0.05) under thermal stress, and an extended lifespan of 1-2 days was observed under UV exposure. Additionally, reactive oxygen species were significantly reduced, with a fold change of 0.54-0.7 (P <= 0.05) compared to control. Structural improvements in nematodes treated with mealworm-derived bioactives included enhanced pharyngeal integrity, reduced lipofuscin content, lower lipid accumulation and prevention of intestinal permeability. These changes highlight the role of mealworm protein concentrate and extracts in maintaining cellular health, improving metabolic functions and mitigating aging-related deterioration. These effects were supported by increased antioxidant enzyme activities (superoxide dismutase and catalase) and the activation of stress response pathways mediated by hsf-1 and skn-1. Conclusion: The study demonstrated that mealworm aqueous extracts and protein concentrate possess significant anti-aging properties and improve stress resilience in C. elegans. These findings highlight the potential of mealworm-derived products in mitigating age-related health issues, with promising applications in cosmeceuticals and nutraceuticals. (c) 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.