As we grow older, a group of cells known as senescent cells accumulates in our bodies. These are cells that no longer divide and at the same time release inflammatory signals. These signals can disrupt the functioning of our tissues if they are present for a prolonged period. A weakened immune system plays a role in this, as it is less able to clear away these old cells.
At the same time, small changes in the DNA of our cells arise step by step in our bodies, so-called somatic mutations. Usually, these mutations do little harm, but in stem cells they can slowly spread to new cells that renew tissues. This can disrupt the functioning of organs and in some cases cause cancer.
Both processes, senescence and mutations, influence each other and together drive the ageing process. Ageing therefore does not occur evenly, but sometimes at an accelerated rate in certain parts of the body. Researchers are trying to gain a better understanding of how these two factors work together precisely and what role they play in various age-related diseases.
For people who want to age healthily, it is important to know that research into reducing senescent cells and managing mutations is in full development. These insights can help to better prevent or treat age-related complaints and diseases later in life.
Source: Reason
