Abstract

The objective of this study was to determine how metabolic boosting weight loss drugs affect lifespan. Experiments were performed with wild type Drosophila melanogaster and the weight loss medication PhenQ. PhenQ was expected to increase the metabolic rate in the model organism, consequently causing a decrease in longevity. Three experimental groups were tested, including low, medium, and high doses of PhenQ. The results of the experimental groups were compared to those of the control group, which received no PhenQ. It was hypothesized that longevity and PhenQ dosage would display a negative correlation; hence, the highest dosage of PhenQ would generate the shortest life span in Drosophila melanogaster. After drug administration, the life span of each Drosophila melanogaster was recorded, and following the conclusion of the study, an average value was calculated per each experimental group. Statistical significance was determined through a chi-square analysis test. It was concluded that a negative relationship between PhenQ dosage and the lifespan of Drosophila melanogaster does exist. An increased dosage of PhenQ leads to increased aging in both males and females. Using the results obtained from this research, future studies can determine if these results are similar in humans. These results may be particularly important for consumers to understand and should be further investigated.

Key Words: Drosophila melanogaster, metabolism, temperature, lifespan, PhenQ