Abstract

The aging process in humans is extremely complex with many factors undoubtedly involved to some degree including environmental, dietary, and genetic influences. The process can be described as a physical decline and involves the buildup of cellular and molecular damage that increases our susceptibility to disease and infirmity as we grow older.

The current view of scientists is that random damage that occurs within cells and among extracellular molecules is responsible for many of the age-related changes that are observed in organisms. Molecular disorder occurs and accumulates within cells and their products because this occurrence outpaces the cell's repair mechanisms. This article summarizes recent literature reports of research efforts directed toward intervention in the aging process as well as changes and diseases associated with the aging process involving all the major organ systems in humans. Consideration is given to pharmacological treatment and prevention of such age-related changes and conditions.