Biology of aging
Biology of Aging refers to the study of the biological processes that lead to senescence, or the gradual deterioration of function characteristic of most complex lifeforms, arguably found in all biological kingdoms, that on the level of the organism increases mortality after maturation. The word senescence can refer either to cellular senescence or to senescence of the whole organism.
Overview[edit | edit source]
The biology of aging involves the study of the cellular and organismal processes that result in the aging phenomenon. Aging is characterized by a progressive decline in physiological function, leading to an increased risk of disease and death. The biology of aging is a complex field, encompassing research from many different scientific disciplines, including genetics, biochemistry, and molecular biology.
Cellular Senescence[edit | edit source]
Cellular senescence is the phenomenon by which normal diploid cells cease to divide. In culture, fibroblasts can reach a maximum of 50 cell divisions before becoming senescent. This phenomenon is known as "replicative senescence", or the Hayflick limit. Cellular senescence does not refer to the senescence of the whole organism.
Theories of Aging[edit | edit source]
There are several theories that attempt to explain the biological mechanisms of aging. These include the Free-radical theory of aging, the Mitochondrial theory of aging, the Telomere theory of aging, and the Hormesis theory of aging. Each of these theories offers a different perspective on the biological processes that lead to aging.
Genetics of Aging[edit | edit source]
The genetics of aging is the part of genetics concerned with the study of the genetic basis of aging. This involves the study of genes that affect aging and longevity, as well as the mechanisms by which these genes operate.
Interventions in Aging[edit | edit source]
There are several interventions that have been proposed to slow down or reverse the aging process. These include caloric restriction, genetic modification, and pharmacological interventions. Each of these interventions has been shown to have some effect on the aging process in various animal models.
See Also[edit | edit source]
- Senescence
- Cellular senescence
- Hayflick limit
- Free-radical theory of aging
- Mitochondrial theory of aging
- Telomere theory of aging
- Hormesis theory of aging
- Genetics of aging
- Caloric restriction
- Genetic modification
- Pharmacological interventions
 | This biology article is a stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding it. |
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes
Search WikiMD
Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) available.
Advertise on WikiMD
WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.
Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
