Fat chance for longevity

The health benefits of specific fatty acids and physiological roles of fat metabolism are important subjects that are still poorly understood. In this issue of Genes & Development, O'Rourke and colleagues (pp. 429-440) uncovered a role for lipase-generated omega-6 fatty acids in promoting autophagy and, consequently, life span extension under both fed and fasting conditions. The impact of this finding is discussed with regard to the nutritional value of omega-6 fatty acids and regulatory functions of fat metabolism beyond its well-known role in energy storage.