Hsp72, inflammation, and aging: causes, consequences, and perspectives

Although aging is an inexorable component of life, its progress depends on how cumulative disruptions of homeostasis are compensated. Cumulative oxidative and inflammatory processes must be controlled to maintain successful aging. Heat shock proteins, such as those of the Hsp70 family, can be considered a danger signal, and their effects can either support longevity by neutralizing danger or can become detrimental when their production is not balanced. Here, we discuss evidence indicating that these highly conserved proteins can favor longevity when such balance is achieved. We emphasize mechanisms affected by Hsp72 that can interfere with effects of excessive oxidative stress and subtle inflammation and, acting either directly or by affecting neuro-immune-endocrine interactions, can mediate metabolic, neuroprotective, and behavioral adjustments during the aging process.