Raspberry extract ameliorates oxidative stress in Caenorhabditis elegans via the SKN-1/Nrf2 pathway

Raspberries are rich in phytochemicals with health benefits. Our previous research has shown raspberry extracts (RE) can promote longevity in Caenorhabditis elegans. The objective of this study was to determine whether the extension of lifespan was regulated by oxidative stress, and to explore the underlying mechanisms of action. The results showed that RE could ameliorate oxidative stress, which improved antioxidant enzyme activity and enhanced resistance to paraquat. Meanwhile, treatment with RE could down-regulate the overexpression of reactive oxygen species and affect the expression of antioxidant related genes. However, administration with RE abolished the extension of the lifespan of skn-1(zu135) mutants, and promoted the migration of SKN-1 into the nucleus, which inhibited the expression of skn-1 downstream gene. In conclusion, RE could ameliorate oxidative stress in C. elegans via the SKN-1/Nrf2 pathway. This study provided the theoretical basis to explore the phytochemicals in the prevention of aging regulated by oxidative stress.