The Pillars of Ageing: How Today’s Understanding Shapes Longevity
Ageing is a complex, multifactorial process influenced by genetics, lifestyle, and environmental factors. Over recent years, research into longevity has identified several key biological processes—often referred to as the pillars of ageing—that drive the ageing process and influence overall health and lifespan. These pillars form the foundation of modern approaches to promoting healthy ageing and longevity. By understanding these biological mechanisms, we can better manage the ageing process, optimising diet, supplements, and lifestyle choices to enhance long-term health.
The Pillars of Ageing
1. Genomic Instability
- Over time, our DNA accumulates damage from environmental toxins, radiation, and normal metabolic processes. This genomic instability can lead to mutations, cellular dysfunction, and age-related diseases, including cancer. Protecting and repairing DNA integrity is critical for longevity.
2. Telomere Attrition
- Telomeres are protective caps at the ends of chromosomes that shorten with each cell division. As telomeres become critically short, cells enter a state of senescence or die, contributing to tissue ageing. Longer telomeres are associated with increased lifespan, while short telomeres are linked to diseases of ageing.
3. Epigenetic Alterations
- Epigenetics refers to changes in gene expression without altering the DNA sequence. Ageing influences these epigenetic markers, leading to changes in the expression of genes involved in repair and metabolism. Managing these alterations can delay the onset of age-related diseases.
4. Loss of Proteostasis
- Proteostasis refers to the balance of protein production, folding, and degradation in the body. As we age, this system becomes less efficient, leading to the accumulation of misfolded or damaged proteins, which contributes to diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Supporting proteostasis helps maintain cellular function and prevents neurodegeneration.
5. Deregulated Nutrient Sensing
- The body’s ability to detect and respond to nutrients diminishes with age, contributing to metabolic disorders like diabetes and obesity. Key nutrient-sensing pathways, including insulin, mTOR, and AMPK, play essential roles in regulating lifespan. Optimising these pathways through diet and fasting can promote longevity.
6. Mitochondrial Dysfunction
- Mitochondria are the energy-producing organelles in cells, and their function declines with age, leading to reduced energy production and increased oxidative stress. Supporting mitochondrial health is essential for maintaining energy levels and reducing oxidative damage.
7. Cellular Senescence
- Senescent cells are old or damaged cells that have stopped dividing but remain
metabolically active, releasing inflammatory signals that damage surrounding tissues. Clearing these cells or reducing their inflammatory burden is critical for healthy ageing.
8. Stem Cell Exhaustion
- Stem cells are responsible for regenerating tissues throughout life. As we age, stem cell reserves become depleted, leading to reduced tissue repair and regeneration. Supporting stem cell function is vital for maintaining tissue health.
9. Altered Intercellular Communication
- Ageing disrupts communication between cells, leading to chronic inflammation,
immune system decline, and impaired tissue repair. Reducing inflammation and
improving cellular communication can mitigate these effects.
