The “signs of aging” refer to a set of interconnected biological processes that occur over time and contribute to the aging of living organisms.

These signs are considered the underlying causes of aging and age-related diseases. Currently, eleven signs of aging are recognized:

⤷ Genomic instability. This refers to the accumulation of DNA damage over time, which can lead to mutations and cellular dysfunction.

⤷ Telomeres. These are the protective structures at the ends of chromosomes that shorten with each cell division. When telomeres become too short, cells stop dividing and can enter senescence.

⤷ Epigenetic alterations. Changes in the chemical modifications of DNA and its associated proteins can lead to alterations in gene expression that contribute to aging.

⤷ Loss of proteostasis. The ability of cells to fold and properly maintain proteins decreases over time, leading to an accumulation of damaged proteins and cellular dysfunction.

Dysregulated nutrient sensing. Alterations in nutrient sensing pathways can disrupt cellular metabolism and contribute to age-related diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and cancer.

Mitochondria. These are the energy-producing organelles within cells, and as they age, they become less efficient and produce more harmful byproducts.

Gut dysbiosis. Most of these bacteria have a positive effect on health and contribute to the body's natural processes. However, when one of these bacterial colonies becomes unbalanced, it can lead to dysbiosis.

⤷ Chronic inflammation. This refers to the body's process of fighting off harmful substances, such as infections, injuries, and toxins, in an attempt to heal itself.

⤷ Altered intercellular communication. Disruptions in cell signaling can disrupt the normal functioning of tissues and organs, contributing to aging and age-related diseases.

⤷ Senescent cells. This means that cells stop dividing but do not die, leading to an accumulation of non-functional cells that can contribute to age-related diseases.

These characteristics are interconnected and can reinforce each other over time, leading to a progressive decline in physiological function and an increased risk of age-related diseases.

“Aging as a risk factor for disease” - OMS