Understanding the Hallmarks of Aging: Targets for Intervention

To effectively combat aging, scientists must first understand its fundamental mechanisms. The “Hallmarks of Aging” framework identifies nine key molecular and cellular culprits that drive the aging process. These include genomic instability, telomere attrition, epigenetic alterations, loss of proteostasis, deregulated nutrient sensing, mitochondrial dysfunction, cellular senescence, stem cell exhaustion, and altered intercellular communication. By targeting these specific hallmarks, researchers are developing novel strategies to slow down, halt, or even reverse age-related decline. This article provides an overview of each hallmark and discusses how they serve as critical targets for anti-aging interventions.