Bridging Biochemistry and Aging: A Journey Towards Prolonged Health span

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Aging involves intricate molecular, cellular and systemic changes over time. Biochemical research has illuminated mechanisms underlying age-related functional decline and revealed promising targets to extend healthspan. Mitochondrial dysfunction, telomere attrition, and impaired proteostasis contribute to aging. However, cellular senescence, marked by arrested proliferation and secretion of proinflammatory factors, has emerged as a central driver. Senolytics, drugs that selectively eliminate senescent cells, alleviate multiple age-related phenotypes in animal models. Stem cell exhaustion also impairs tissue homeostasis. Rejuvenating endogenous stem cell populations could help restore youthful regeneration. Epigenetic alterations lead to aberrant gene regulation, while inflammation and immunosenescence disrupt tissue function. Caloric restriction robustly extends lifespan in animals, but optimally translating this to humans remains challenging. Elucidating interactions between genetics, epigenetics, and lifestyle provides insights into precision interventions tailored to an individual’s aging profile. New technologies like epigenome editing may eventually reprogram aged cells into more youthful states. Metabolic engineering through pathways related to mitochondria, inflammation, and nutrition also shows promise. Realizing the potential of emerging strategies to prolong human healthspan demands collaborative, interdisciplinary efforts spanning from molecular discoveries to clinical implementations, guided by ethical frameworks for responsible translation. Innovative biogerontology research portends a future where healthspan is not constrained by the biological march of time but extended through science thoughtfully applied for the benefit of humankind.