👉 Aging biology, or gerontology, explores the biological processes that underlie the aging of organisms and the associated decline in function over time. It encompasses various fields such as genetics, cellular biology, and molecular biology to understand why and how organisms age. Key areas include telomere shortening, which limits cell division; accumulation of cellular damage from oxidative stress and DNA mutations; and changes in protein homeostasis, leading to the dysfunction of cellular machinery. Additionally, aging biology investigates the role of senescent cells, which no longer divide but can release harmful substances that contribute to tissue degeneration. Hormonal changes, epigenetic alterations, and mitochondrial dysfunction are also central to the aging process, collectively influencing lifespan and healthspan. By unraveling these mechanisms, researchers aim to develop interventions that could delay aging and improve quality of life in older adults.
