Life starts ticking from the very moment of conception and we continue to grow and progress a finite journey. As time passes, there is no escaping the ageing process. What was young will become older and ageing itself has been in the sights of scientists for many years. As one progresses further along their timeline, several gradual degradations are introduced including longer recovery times, fatigue and general introduction of age-related diseases that lay dormant until their ‘time’ has arrived for manifestation. Time is constantly ticking away, and body undergoes changes as the ageing processes takes it course. Understanding life and the body has led to a number of studies around genetic functions of humans.
//Ageing in terms of DNA//
So how do we define ageing with relation to DNA? It’s observed as a broad chain of changes that are a result of gradual DNA irregular function, causing malfunction of protein and ultimately spurring changes in the body. Scientists have placed great emphasis on understanding this relationship and foundation of the ageing process in an effort to realise effective ways to extend life span. This doesn’t mean the average human will be in the hundreds of years but understanding ageing and implementing solutions to slow its process can yield significant health benefits.
Scientists generally know what’s going on throughout the body ageing process, understanding the various triggers, mutations and proteins that lead to various other effects in the body. What remains a challenge is how to implement and test various treatments that are hypothesised to influence the inevitable process of ageing. Rather than preventing ageing, it’s about shaping direction, perhaps a form of damage control. While making conscious changes to living, this doesn’t mean the end result has led to a better quality of life. It’s important to consider the mental state of health alongside physical to ensure stability and sustenance are maintained throughout.
//Gene Therapy to treat other age related disease//
Studies in Harvard have progressed in gene therapy to tackle age induced diseases including diabetes (type ii), specific organ failure and significant boost to overall body functionality in test mice. Ageing is a slippery slope that brings about possibility of cancer, Alzheimer’s and other ailments. Progress in gene therapy serves as steppingstones to tackling other server conditions, negating the effects of ageing with respect to potentially fatal conditions. Therapy applied follows a holistic approach that promotes overall general health, leading to improved quality of life in tandem with life extension.
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