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Somatic Self-Renewal

Meaning

Somatic Self-Renewal is the intrinsic, continuous biological capacity of the body’s non-reproductive cells and tissues (soma) to undergo necessary repair, replacement, and regeneration throughout the entire lifespan. This vital process is mediated by the continuous activity of tissue-resident stem cells, a controlled rate of cellular turnover, and robust protein synthesis mechanisms, all of which ensure the ongoing maintenance of organ function and structural integrity. A measurable decline in the rate of somatic self-renewal is a recognized, fundamental hallmark of biological aging and contributes significantly to the development of age-related pathology.