Aging Mechanisms

Aging mechanisms refer to the biological processes and factors that contribute to the aging of organisms over time. These mechanisms encompass various cellular, genetic, and environmental influences that lead to the gradual decline in physiological function, increased vulnerability to diseases, and eventual death. Key aging mechanisms include oxidative stress, telomere shortening, cellular senescence, and the accumulation of damage to DNA, proteins, and lipids. Additionally, changes in hormonal levels and metabolic processes also play significant roles in aging. Understanding these mechanisms is critical for advancing knowledge in fields such as gerontology, biomedicine, and healthspan research, with the aim of developing interventions that may slow down or reverse aspects of the aging process.