The main focus of our current research is the evolutionary theory of ageing, which is a fundamental and, as yet, unresolved issue in biology. We pursue this line of research using experimental evolution, next-generation sequencing, behavioural assays and long-term datasets. Currently we are very interested in i) the evolution of sex differences in lifespan and ageing; ii) the role of condition-dependent mortality in the evolution of ageing; and iii) the trade-off between learning and longevity.
5 selected recent research publications:
Chen H-y & Maklakov AA (2012) Longer lifespan evolves under high condition-dependent mortality. Current Biology 22:2140-2143
Berg EC & Maklakov AA (2012) Sexes suffer from suboptimal lifespan because of genetic conflict in a seed beetle. Proceedings of the Royal Society B 279: 4296-4302
Maklakov AA & Arnqvist G (2009) Testing for direct and indirect effects of mate choice by manipulating female choosiness. Current Biology 19, 1903-1906
Maklakov AA, Hall MD, Simpson SJ, Dessmann J, Clissold, F, Zajitschek F, Lailvaux SP, Raubenhimer D, Bonduriansky R & Brooks RC (2009) Sex differences in nutrient-dependent reproductive ageing. Aging Cell 8:324-330
Maklakov AA, Simpson SJ, Dessmann J, Clissold, F, Hall MD, Zajitschek F, Raubenhimer D, Bonduriansky R, Brooks RC (2008) Sex-specific fitness effects of nutrient intake on reproduction and lifespan. Current Biology 18:1062-1066
Selected opinion pieces:
Maklakov AA (2013) Aging: Why Do Organisms Live Too Long? Current Biology 23 (22), R1003-R1005
Maklakov AA and Lummaa V (2013) Evolution of sex differences in lifespan and aging: Causes and constraints. BioEssays 35:717-724