Protein and amino acid restriction, aging and disease: from yeast to humans

Highlights • Protein or AA restriction has been shown to be as potent as calorie restriction in extending healthspan in multiple model organisms. • AA restriction affects lifespan partly through modulation of the amino acid sensing pathways TOR and GCN2. • Human epidemiological studies highlight the detrimental effects of high protein diets, in particular animal-derived protein sources in contrast to plant-based sources. • Epidemiological studies indicate that low protein diets are associated with lower risk of chronic and age-related diseases such as CVDs, diabetes, and cancer.