(Ebook) The Evolution of Aging by Theodore, C. Goldsmith ISBN 9780978870904, 0978870905

(Ebook) The Evolution of Aging by Theodore, C. Goldsmith ISBN 9780978870904, 0978870905

What is biological aging? Scientists have been baffled by this question for centuries and still disagree regarding even the general nature of aging. Is aging an unalterable fact of life or is aging itself a treatable condition? This book describes the increasing evidence and theoretical support for the exciting idea that aging can be generally delayed and lifespan extension is possible.Today there are two main aging theories that provide explanations for observations of aging in humans and other mammals. Non-programmed theories, popular with gerontologists since 1952, propose that each species only evolved the ability to achieve a particular unalterable and internally controlled lifespan. Programmed aging theories propose that aging is the result of a suicide mechanism that purposely limits lifespan in order to obtain an evolutionary advantage. Both theories require modifications to evolution theory as generally understood. Programmed theories provide a better match to some observations but non-programmed theories involve a less extreme conflict with evolution theory.This book provides an historical review of biological aging theories including underlying evolution and genetics issues and describes exciting recent discoveries and theoretical concepts showing that aging is indeed programmed.ContentsIntroductionEvolutionary Mechanics TheoryHistoric Theories of AgingModern Non-Programmed TheoriesDigital Genetics and Evolution TheoryDiscoveries Affecting Aging TheoryModern Programmed Aging TheoriesEvolvability TheoriesAttitudes about AgingAnti-Aging ResearchConclusions and Recent DevelopmentsOnline ResourcesAbout the author: