Scientists have investigated how the body changes as we get older. They studied nearly seven million cells from 21 different organs, such as the brain, heart, and lungs. Their research shows that the ageing process begins earlier than is often thought.
The changes in our bodies do not happen at random, but in a clear order and in a coherent way. About a quarter of the cells in the body change in number as we get older. In addition, the ageing patterns also differ between men and women, which may explain why some diseases occur more frequently in one sex.
In addition, the researchers have found locations in the DNA that play an important role in ageing. These genetic ‘hotspots’ represent potential targets for future treatments that can slow down the ageing process or improve health. This could lead to new therapies aimed at maintaining vitality at an older age.
These insights therefore provide valuable information on the ageing of our bodies and can contribute to better health at a later age. Understanding how ageing works precisely helps us to deal with this better and to age healthily.
Source: Original article
