Genes, Aging and Immortality

Introduction

QUESTIONS ABOUT THE BIOLOGY OF AGING

What is aging?     

Measuring Aging, Lifespan and Life Expectancy

Aging has become a significant feature of human life only in recent history 

What happens to our bodies and cells as we age?

Our Aging Bodies

Diseases associated with aging

Biomarkers of aging 

What does it mean to die of old age?

Why do we age and die?  What is the purpose?

How do we age and die?

Cell death

Cellular senescence hypotheses

Wear and Tear Hypotheses

The Oxidative Stress (Free Radical) Hypothesis

Do genes control aging and death?

QUESTIONS ABOUT THE SEARCH FOR IMMORTALITY

Do all organisms age?  Are any organisms immortal?

Could humans become immortal?  Is there an upper limit to the human lifespan?

If not immortal, can we extend our lifespans significantly?

Do diets, supplements and lifestyles affect human lifespan?

What is the future for antiaging research?

What's the best way to live to 120?

QUESTIONS ABOUT AGING AND SOCIETY

What are the social, economic and political implications of extending the human lifespan?

What are the ethics of extending human lifespan?

How do cultures differ in their attitudes towards aging and the aged?

Are there advantages to aging?

REFERENCES and RESOURCES