How and why do we age? Scientists around the world are peering deep into our cells, seeking clues to these complex questions. Are the answers in our genes? Does it have to do with how we process certain foods, or even how we use the very air we breathe? Each day, researchers are seeking new knowledge that may help us all live healthier and longer lives.

Infoaging's Biology Center is designed to bring you the latest information on the biological causes of human aging. In each topic you'll find a description of and general information about that issue. You'll also find sections on the latest and future research, as well as links to web and print resources on that topic.

Topics in Cellular Aging
Cells are critical building blocks of our body. How and why cells age, lose their ability to function and reproduce, and ultimately die may help us understand the causes (and perhaps the cures) for many age-related diseases and conditions. Click below for more information on the following topics in cellular aging.

• Oxidative Damage
  Can antioxidants prevent wear and tear on our cells?
  
  
• Telomeres
  Is there a biological clock for cellular aging?
  
  
• DNA Damage and Repair
  How does aging affect cells' ability to repair themselves?
  
  
• Mitochondrial Aging
  What is the effect of aging on the cell's energy supply?
  
  
• Cellular Senescence
  How do cells age?
  
  

Other Topics in the Biology of Aging
Researchers are exploring several big questions about the aging process. Are there genes that grant us longevity? Can a drastically reduced diet improve and lengthen our lives? Can we learn something about human longevity from simple organisms like worms or fruit flies? Click below for more information and answers to these and other questions in the biology of aging.

• Biomarkers of Aging Information Center
  Are there tests that can predict how long a person will live?
  
  
• The Immune Response and Aging Information Center
  Are there new vaccines and other immunological strategies that may help us ward off the disease of aging?
  
  
• Cloning and Aging Information Center
  What might new cloning technologies mean for fighting age-related diseases and confronting the aging process?
  
  
• Neurobiology of Aging Information Center
  How does the brain change with age?
  
  
• Genomics and Gene Therapy
  What does the mapping of the human genome mean for aging research?
  
  
• Theories of Aging
  How do we age?
  
  
• Longevity Assurance Genes
  Are there specific genes that help people live to 100 and beyond?
  
  
• Caloric Restriction
  Can drastically reducing our calories increase our longevity?
  
  
• Animal Models of Aging
  What does research on other animals and organisms tell us about the human aging process?
  
  
• Stem Cells
  Do stem cells offer a viable strategy for confronting the aging process?

Check back frequently, as we plan to keep expanding our coverage of the biology of aging.