Secrets of Cellular Aging Revealed

Posted on 2010-02-24 06:00:00 in Mechanisms of Aging |

Senescence, the process whereby cells stop dividing and tissue reveals physical signs of deterioration, is rooted in complex molecular pathways that have remained difficult to elucidate.  Thomas von Zglinicki, from Newcastle University (United Kingdom), in conjunction with an international collaboration of colleagues, investigated why cells become senescent.  The team found that when an aging cell detects serious DNA damage resulting from general wear, it prompts long-term activation of the checkpoint gene CDKN1A (p21), which induces mitochondrial dysfunction and production of reactive oxygen species (ROS); this in-turn prompts cells to self-destruct or stop dividing.  Referring to this process as a “dynamic feedback loop” the researchers write that: “We show that this loop is both necessary and sufficient for the stability of growth arrest during the establishment of the senescent phenotype.” They speculate these insights could offer explanations of the aging process and perhaps provide targeted pathways through which diseases may be more effectively addressed.

Continue reading…

Joao F Passos, Glyn Nelson, Chunfang Wang, Torsten Richter, Cedric Simillion, Carole J Proctor, Satomi Miwa, Sharon Olijslagers, Jennifer Hallinan, Anil Wipat, et al.  “Feedback between p21 and reactive oxygen production is necessary for cell senescence.” Molecular Systems Biology 6, 16 February 2010; doi:10.1038/msb.2010.5.


Health Headlines

Coffee Promotes Blood Vessel Health
One to two cups of coffee daily may help to counteract aortic stiffness in older adults with hypertension.
Risks of Alzheimer’s Disease Rise with Insulin Resistance & Type-2 Diabetes
People with insulin resistance and type-2 diabetes appear to be at an increased risk of developing Alzheimer's Disease.
Berries Boost Brain Health
Blueberries and strawberries scrub up toxic proteins linked to age-related memory loss and cognitive decline.
Healthy Diet Mitigates Metabolic Syndrome
People with Metabolic Syndrome who follow a healthy diet may be up to twice as likely to reverse the condition.
Soy Compound May Reduce Cardiovascular Risk Factor
Soy isoflavones help to improve blood vessel endothelial cell function, potentially reducing cardiovascular disease risks.
Tai Chi Alleviates Fibromyalgia
Compared with an educational and stretching intervention, tai chi resulted with a greater overall improvement in fibromyalgia, in a 12-week long study.
Physiological Changes in Brain as We Age
University of Michigan (US) scientists identify breakdowns in brain connections that slow reaction times as we age.
Cinnamon Helps to Improve Antioxidant Status
Cinnamon extract helps to improve antioxidant status, potentially reducing risk factors associated with diabetes and heart disease.
Modest Weight Gain Can Prompt Cardiovascular Issues
Young people who add as little as 9 lbs of adominal fat are at increased risk for developing endothelial cell dysfunction, a precursor to cardiovascular disease
Green Leafy Vegetables Help Reduce Diabetes Risk
Eating 1.5 extra servings of green leafy vegetables daily may reduce the risk of type-2 diabetes by up to 14%.
Find an Anti-aging Doctor!

  
View Current Anti-Aging Newsletter!
Second Opinion with Dr. Ron Klatz
Solutions to improve your life, and your lifespan too.
radio tower Dr. Ronald Klatz, A4M physician founder, interviews the world’s top anti-aging experts in health, longevity, brain fitness, aesthetic beauty, and more. Get the answers to look and feel twenty years younger today.
Tune in to Second Opinion with Dr. Ronald Klatz. »

upcoming Events

U.S. Events
symposiums
workshops
congresses
Las Vegas
fellowships
fellowships
International Events
See all events »