The intrinsic, evolutionarily conserved biochemical pathways and molecular processes within a cell that are responsible for maintaining cellular integrity, resisting stress, and extending functional lifespan. These mechanisms are the core biological defense systems that govern how a cell copes with accumulated damage from metabolic activity and environmental exposure. Understanding and modulating these mechanisms is the foundation of modern longevity and antiaging therapeutic strategies. They dictate the rate of biological aging at the foundational level.
Origin
This term is central to geroscience, derived from extensive research into the molecular biology of aging across various model organisms, from yeast to mammals. The identification of conserved pathways that influence lifespan, such as those related to nutrient sensing and stress response, established the concept of manipulable longevity mechanisms. It represents the shift from observing aging to actively intervening in its core drivers.
Mechanism
Key mechanisms include sirtuin activation, which plays a role in DNA repair and metabolic regulation, and the induction of autophagy, which clears damaged organelles and aggregated proteins. The regulation of mitochondrial function is also critical, specifically optimizing the electron transport chain to minimize reactive oxygen species production while maintaining efficient ATP synthesis. Hormonal signaling, particularly growth hormone and insulin signaling, profoundly influences these mechanisms by modulating cellular growth and repair signals.
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