What is the Origin of Pro-Aging Signaling?

This concept is fundamental to modern gerontology, stemming from the identification of conserved aging pathways across species. It shifts the focus from aging as a passive process to one driven by specific, identifiable molecular mechanisms. The clinical relevance lies in targeting these pathways to extend healthspan.

What is the Mechanism of Pro-Aging Signaling?

Key pro-aging pathways include the persistent activation of NF-κB, which promotes chronic low-grade inflammation, and dysregulation of the Insulin/IGF-1 signaling axis, which, when overactive, can accelerate cellular proliferation and exhaustion. The accumulation of senescent cells, which secrete pro-inflammatory senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) factors, further amplifies this negative signaling cascade. Therapeutic strategies focus on inhibiting these drivers to restore cellular homeostasis.

Pro-Aging Signaling

Meaning

Pro-aging signaling refers to the cascade of intracellular and systemic communication pathways that actively drive the processes of cellular senescence, degradation, and functional decline. These signals often involve inflammatory cytokines, nutrient-sensing pathways stuck in an overdrive state, and the accumulation of damaged macromolecules. Identifying and mitigating these signals is a central tenet of longevity medicine.