Discovery of daf-2 Insulin/IGF-1 Pathway in C. elegans Aging

Cynthia Kenyon's discovery that mutations in the daf-2 gene (insulin/IGF-1 receptor) could double C. elegans lifespan revolutionized aging research. This showed that aging is genetically regulated and can be modulated - it's not just wear and tear. The pathway connects directly to mTOR and nutrient sensing.

For business applications, Kenyon's work demonstrates that lifespan isn't fixed - it responds to inputs. Companies aren't destined to die at any particular age; their longevity depends on how they manage resources and respond to constraints.