Aging – Lesson 2 – Overview of the mechanism of aging

Aging manifests at three different levels: molecular level, cellular level and systemic level.

I/ At the molecular level:

1. Instability in the genetic system
2. Gradual shortening of telomeres
3. Epigenetic changes
4. Loss or reduction of protein biosynthesis
5. Changes in autophagy processes
6. Loss of mitochondrial function

II/ At the cellular level:

1. Cells age
2. Stem cell exhaustion
3. Changes in interactions between cells

III/ At the system level

1. Loss of nutritional function
2. Loss of ability to regulate nutritional sensitivity
3. Changes in intestinal microflora
4. General mechanism of the aging process