Genes Against Aging

Individual mutations in mice can slow aging: They extend life span by retarding a wide range of harmful, age-dependent changes in multiple cells and tissues. Evolutionary changes-by definition, changes in DNA sequence-can lead to even more dramatic postponement of age-dependent deterioration. Genetic variation within a species, for example among breeds of dogs, can also lead to major changes in aging rate, although there is not yet any strong evidence for similar genetic variation that modulates aging in rodents or humans. This essay compares different strategies for using genetic information to clarify questions in biogerontology, suggesting an emphasis on genes that can retard multiple forms of age-dependent dysfunction in parallel.