Oxidative Stress, Mitochondrial Dysfunction, and Aging
Author Information
Author(s): Hang Cui, Yahui Kong, Hong Zhang
Primary Institution: University of Massachusetts Medical School
Hypothesis
The interplay between reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mitochondrial dysfunction contributes to the aging process and age-related diseases.
Conclusion
Oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction are significant factors in the aging process and may lead to various age-related diseases.
Supporting Evidence
- Aging is characterized by a decline in physiological functions and an increase in mortality.
- Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are implicated as a causative factor of aging due to their potential to cause oxidative damage.
- Mitochondria are both a major source of ROS and a primary target of oxidative damage.
Takeaway
As we get older, our cells can get damaged by tiny particles called reactive oxygen species, which can hurt our energy factories called mitochondria, making us age faster.
Limitations
The study discusses various theories and evidence but acknowledges that the precise mechanisms linking ROS, mitochondrial dysfunction, and aging are not fully understood.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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