Science has shown that cellular damage is one of the primary drivers of aging.
Simply, how old your cells are is how old you are, biologically.
Factors like dehydration, nutrient deficiencies, and oxidative stress accelerate aging.
Most chronic diseases are a result of a buildup of cellular damage.
“Science is showing that while chronological aging is inevitable, biological aging is malleable. There's a part of it that you can fight, and we are getting closer and closer to winning that fight.”
—Eric Verdin, MD, CEO., Buck Institute.
What we know about aging
Biology of aging
These findings represent a broad spectrum of research areas in longevity science, from cellular and molecular mechanisms to lifestyle and dietary interventions. Ongoing research continues to refine these insights and explore new strategies for extending healthy lifespan.
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Discovery: Cellular senescence is a state where cells lose their ability to divide and function properly but do not die. These senescent cells accumulate with age and contribute to chronic inflammation and tissue dysfunction.
Impact: Targeting and removing senescent cells, known as senolytics, has shown promise in improving health and extending lifespan in animal studies.
This approach aims to reduce the negative effects of aging-related cellular dysfunction.
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Discovery: Metabolic processes, including those related to insulin signaling and energy production, play a crucial role in aging.
Caloric restriction and intermittent fasting have been shown to improve metabolic health and extend lifespan in various organisms.
Impact: These dietary interventions may enhance longevity by reducing oxidative stress, improving insulin sensitivity, and promoting cellular repair processes.
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Discovery: Genetic factors, including specific longevity-associated genes, have been identified in various studies. Additionally, epigenetic modifications (changes in gene expression without altering the DNA sequence) play a significant role in aging.
Impact: Understanding the genetic and epigenetic mechanisms of aging could lead to targeted therapies and lifestyle changes that can modify aging processes and extend lifespan.
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Discovery: Autophagy is the process by which cells recycle damaged components and maintain cellular health. It declines with age, leading to the accumulation of damaged cellular material and increased susceptibility to age-related diseases.
Impact: Enhancing autophagy through dietary interventions, exercise, or pharmacological agents (such as rapamycin) may improve cellular function and longevity.
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Discovery: The gut microbiome, the community of microorganisms living in the digestive tract, significantly influences overall health and aging. Changes in the microbiome composition are associated with various age-related diseases and metabolic disorders.
Impact: Maintaining a healthy gut microbiome through diet, probiotics, and prebiotics may improve immune function, reduce inflammation, and support longevity.
