Aging

How Positive Attitude Affects Aging in Seniors

A recent study, titled Just as Expected? Older Adults' Aging Expectations are Associated with Subjective Cognition, explores the relationship between positive expectations about aging and cognitive health in older adults. 

Researchers found that seniors who maintain positive expectations about their physical health, mental well-being, and cognitive function tend to experience better self-perceived cognitive abilities and lower subjective cognitive decline (SCD). This association suggests that a positive outlook can contribute to a healthier aging experience.

A major breakthrough has been made in preserving mRNA stability, a discovery that could revolutionize cancer treatments and anti-aging therapies. Traditionally, mRNA (messenger RNA) is quickly broken down in cells through a process called deadenylation, which involves the removal of the poly(A) tail, a protective structure that helps mRNA survive long enough to carry out its function. This degradation process is largely controlled by a protein complex known as CCR4-NOT.

Researchers have found that chemical signals released by mitochondria are communicating to those in other cells. This has an impact on how rapidly organisms age.

Discovery of Mitochondria Communication

In 1993 a discovery upended the idea that aging is due to various breakdowns and failures. Scientists found a mutation in a single gene that doubled a worm’s life span. Later work revealed that genes related to insulin regulation are the vital controllers of aging in many animals, from invertebrates to humans. This suggested that aging is not a random process after all.  Instead, there are specific genes that regulate aging. This paved the way for further study into how aging works at a molecular level.