Leibniz Institute on Aging - Fritz Lipmann Institute (FLI)
We conduct research on the biology of aging at the molecular, cellular, and systems levels.
Aging Research at FLI
To study the biological foundations of aging — from molecules to entire organisms - we conduct multi-disciplinary research, combining evolutionary approaches, diverse model systems, and cutting-edge omics technologies.
Institute's Research Infrastructure
... combines state-of-the-art core facilities, core services, animal facilities, and specialized units into a powerful network for excellent research.
Research in Dialogue
Whether scientific conferences, lectures, or events for students and teachers, as well as our series Science & Society, or the Long Night of Sciences, and MINT Festival for the general public – we offer insights into our work in aging research.
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News
Oxidative stress slows down the brain, but the brake can be released again
Researchers at the Leibniz Institute on Aging – Fritz Lipmann Institute (FLI) in Jena found that oxidative stress in the aging brain inhibits the activity of deubiquitylases. These enzymes are essential for regulating protein degradation. As a result, ubiquitin tags on proteins are no longer efficiently removed. This can indirectly impair the function of the proteasome, the cell’s central proteolytic degradation machinery. Notably, this effect is reversible: enzyme activity can be restored in vivo by antioxidants. The study, published in “Nature Communications”, thus identifies oxidative stress -mediated protein oxidation as a reversible chemical process in brain aging.
How can a heart beat for centuries? A lesson from the Greenland shark
The Greenland shark (Somniosus microcephalus), with an expected lifespan of up to 400 years, is the longest-living known vertebrate on Earth, making it a unique model for studying vertebrate longevity. Researchers now found that the shark’s heart shows extreme signs of aging. Nevertheless, these lesions have no impact on its longevity. Rather, it suggests that its extraordinary longevity is due to its resilience—the ability to maintain physiological functions despite age-related damage.
Evolution shapes the pace of aging: New software brings aging simulations to researchers’ laptops
Why do some species live for only weeks while others survive for centuries? Researchers at the Leibniz Institute on Aging – Fritz Lipmann Institute (FLI) in Jena have developed AEGIS, a freely available software tool that enables scientists to simulate evolution on a standard computer and investigate how lifespan and aging evolve under different ecological pressures and genetic constraints. Described in a new study published in PLoS Computational Biology, the platform represents years of development and marks an important milestone in the evolutionary biology of aging.
From microscopes to aging simulations: A day as a researcher at the FLI
During “Forsche Schüler Tag” on April 23, 2026, a group of nine students at the FLI gained insights into aging research. In particular, they learned about model organisms—mice and the turquoise cichlid—and their significance in research. Through various hands-on activities and aging simulations, the topic was presented in a clear and practical way.
Job offer
Projektleiter ERP (m/f/x)
&
Leiter Betriebsorganisation (m/f/x)
(Application deadline: May 25, 2026)
Research for a better Aging
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Upcoming Events
Long Night of Sciences 2026
On November 20, the “10th Long Night of Sciences” will take place in Jena. The FLI will once again actively participate and open its doors to the interested public from 6 p.m. to midnight.
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