aegumismehhanisme
Aegumismehhanisme, a term of Estonian origin, translates roughly to "aging mechanism." It refers to the biological processes that contribute to the decline in function of cells, tissues, and organs over time, ultimately leading to aging. This is not a single process but rather a complex interplay of various factors. Key areas of research within aegumismehhanisme include cellular senescence, where cells cease to divide and accumulate, potentially releasing harmful molecules. Another significant aspect is telomere shortening, where the protective caps on chromosomes shorten with each cell division, eventually triggering senescence or cell death. Damage to DNA and proteins also plays a crucial role, as the body's ability to repair these damages diminishes with age. Mitochondrial dysfunction, affecting cellular energy production, and epigenetic alterations, changes in gene expression without altering the underlying DNA sequence, are also considered central to aegumismehhanisme. Understanding these underlying mechanisms is vital for developing interventions to promote healthy aging and potentially address age-related diseases. Research in this field seeks to identify and modulate these processes to mitigate the negative consequences of aging.