What is the Origin of Systemic Attrition?

This term is derived from gerontology and pathology, where "systemic" refers to the involvement of the entire organism and "attrition" denotes the gradual wearing down or reduction in strength. It was introduced to provide a comprehensive term for the non-linear, multi-organ functional decline that characterizes biological aging, distinguishing it from single-organ failure. Understanding this broad decline is critical for developing effective longevity interventions.

What is the Mechanism of Systemic Attrition?

The primary mechanism involves the accumulation of molecular and cellular damage, which overwhelms the body's repair and maintenance pathways. Mitochondrial dysfunction reduces the energy available for cellular repair, while chronic activation of inflammatory pathways contributes to tissue degradation and fibrosis. This persistent damage ultimately impairs the communication between the endocrine, nervous, and immune systems, leading to a generalized reduction in physiological reserve and the characteristic signs of aging.

Systemic Attrition ∞ Area

Systemic Attrition

Meaning

Systemic Attrition refers to the cumulative, progressive, and multi-faceted decline in the functional capacity and resilience of interconnected physiological systems throughout the aging process. This is not a single disease state but rather the aggregate consequence of chronic low-grade inflammation, oxidative stress, telomere shortening, and the gradual desensitization of hormone receptors across the body. In the hormonal health domain, it manifests as the age-related decline in endogenous hormone production and the reduced responsiveness of target tissues, leading to a loss of homeostatic control. It is the biological process that underlies the loss of vigor and increased frailty.