What is the Origin of Physiological Youth?

The concept arose from the field of gerontology and the subsequent rise of anti-aging and longevity research, where the focus shifted from lifespan to the quality of life in later years. The term 'physiological' emphasizes the objective, measurable biological status rather than subjective appearance. Key biomarkers, including telomere length and epigenetic clocks, are used to quantify this state.

What is the Mechanism of Physiological Youth?

The maintenance of physiological youth is driven by the sustained function of cellular quality control mechanisms, such as DNA repair, autophagy, and the integrity of mitochondrial biogenesis. A well-tuned endocrine system, with optimal levels of hormones like DHEA, growth hormone, and sex steroids, provides the necessary anabolic and regulatory signals. This mechanism ensures that the rate of cellular repair and renewal outpaces the rate of cellular damage and senescence, effectively slowing the biological aging process.

Physiological Youth

Meaning

Physiological youth is a clinical construct representing the measurable biological age and functional capacity of an individual’s organ systems, which may differ significantly from their chronological age. It is characterized by high cellular efficiency, robust regenerative capacity, minimal accumulated cellular damage, and optimal hormonal balance. Achieving and maintaining this state is the primary goal of longevity medicine, focusing on health span extension.