From Basic Aging Research to Anti-aging

Abstract

 Aging is a pleiotropic and complex biological process. Although numerous hypotheses have been proposed over the years, its underlying mechanisms have remained elusive. However, recent advances in molecular genetic techniques have significantly enhanced our understanding of the molecular basis of aging. It is now evident that both genetic and environmental factors contribute to the aging process. Specifically, the accumulation of minor damage in cellular components induced by various harmful agents, such as reactive oxygen species (ROS), leads to alterations in glucose, amino acid, lipid, and energy metabolism, as well as gene expression patterns, ultimately resulting in age-related physiological decline.

 In response to such damage, organisms have evolved a range of defense mechanisms, including antioxidant enzymes and autophagy. Current evidence suggests that lifespan is determined by the dynamic balance between cellular damage and these protective responses. Anti-aging strategies based on insights from fundamental aging research, have begun to shift from merely delaying the onset of aging to actively treating its manifestations through regenerative medicine.