Longevity and aging, genetic and post-genetic mechanisms. Which target to choose for postponing and treating age-related diseases

Data accumulated rapidly over the last decades on genes involved in regulating longevity in several animal models, from yeast to mice. Extrapolation to humans is however a risky enterprise for reasons to be discussed. Aging, age-dependent decline of functions appear however to be independently regulated mainly by post-genetic mechanisms. Little is known on the interactions between genetic and post-genetic processes. A few examples will be discussed, essentially in relation with the Maillard reaction. Age-related diseases, cardiovascular, respiratory, osteo-articular, increase in frequency and severity with age as do also age-related dementias. It is tempting to speculate on the relationship between the mechanisms of longevity, aging and the onset and evolution of these diseases. A better understanding of such relations might accelerate the elaboration of preventive measures and possibly also curative interventions. (C) 2011 Elsevier Masson SAS and European Union Geriatric Medicine Society. All rights reserved.