Longevity medicine is transforming the way we think about aging.
It’s no longer just about living longer. It’s about living better, with more years spent in
good health. Numerous theories exist (i.e. entropic, vitalist, hormonal, free radical,
mitochondrial, genetic, and nutritional) on aging. Further, there is endless data on
aging; however, not a single coherent picture of the aging process is widely accepted.
As scientists continue to unravel the complex biological processes that occur in our cells
as we age, let’s review and highlight some impactful research published regarding the
following: Genomic Instability: The American Cancer Institute notes that “genomic
instability is caused by defects in processes that control the way cells divide.”
Damage to our genome is a natural part of aging and can occur from free radical
damage.
2. Telomere Attrition: Telomeres are a region of DNA at the end of your
chromosomes that act as protective caps. The length of telomeres shortens as
cells go through rounds of division, linking it to genetic instability. Lifestyle
factors can increase or decrease telomere shortening. Shorter telomeres have
been associated with higher rates of diseases like cancer and accelerated aging.
3. Cellular Senescence: Senescence refers to the process where aging cells lose
their ability to divide but do not die. Senescent cells can accumulate in the body
and release harmful substances that cause inflammation and damage to nearby
cells, and they may play a role in the development of cancer and other chronic
diseases.
