Abstract: The mutation of the gene methuselah (mth) in Drosophila chromosome 3 leads to a 35% increase in average lifespan of adults and enhances their resistance to various forms of stress, such as starvation, high temperature, and paraquat, a superoxide-generating drug. The gene methuselah (mth) encodes a family B G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) Mth and its endogenous ligand is Stunted, a small peptide encoded by the sun gene. The sun gene knockout or overexpression of peptide antagonists of Mth receptor also extends life span of fruit flies. Mth receptor characterized by a signature seven-trans-membrane configuration is thought to be the first GPCR associated with the control of animal ageing. The unique ectodomain of Mth receptor makes contact with multiple ligands. Its biological functions include maintaining the balance of homeostasis and metabolism and participating in the regulation of lifespan, stress response, male germline stem cell population, sensorimotor function, etc. At present, researches of Mth receptor are still in the initial stage. Its working mechanism is of great significance to reveal how GPCR participates in lifespan control. Moreover, it may help us develop new drugs to extend life. Therefore, the structure, function, ligand and signal transduction pathway of the Drosophila Mth receptor were mainly summarized in this article and the outlook for the practical research value of its signal pathway were also reviewed.

Key words: Drosophila, longevity gene, methuselah, GPCR, Mth receptor, ligand