Cellular health in humans involves the optimal functioning and maintenance of individual cells in the body. Several components contribute to cellular health, and these components can undergo changes with age. Here are some key components of cellular health and how they can change:
- DNA integrity: DNA carries the genetic information necessary for cell functioning. With age, accumulated DNA damage and mutations can occur, leading to potential disruptions in cellular processes and an increased risk of diseases, including cancer.
- Mitochondrial function: Mitochondria are the powerhouse of cells, responsible for energy production. With age, mitochondrial function can decline, leading to reduced energy production, increased oxidative stress, and impaired cellular activities.
- Protein homeostasis: Proper protein folding, turnover, and degradation are crucial for cellular health. Age-related changes can disrupt protein homeostasis, leading to the accumulation of misfolded or damaged proteins, contributing to cellular dysfunction and diseases such as neurodegenerative disorders.
- Cellular senescence: Cellular senescence refers to a state of irreversible cell cycle arrest, where cells lose their ability to divide and function properly. Senescent cells can accumulate with age and secrete pro-inflammatory molecules, contributing to chronic inflammation and tissue dysfunction.
- Autophagy: Autophagy is a cellular process responsible for recycling and degrading damaged cellular components. Declines in autophagy with age can impair cellular cleanup and recycling mechanisms, leading to the accumulation of damaged cellular components and potential cellular dysfunction.
- Telomere length: Telomeres are protective structures at the ends of chromosomes that shorten with each cell division. Reduced telomere length is associated with cellular aging and senescence. Over time, telomeres become shorter, affecting cell division and potentially leading to reduced cellular function.
- Oxidative stress: Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the body’s antioxidant defenses. Increased oxidative stress with age can damage cells, proteins, lipids, and DNA, contributing to cellular dysfunction and age-related diseases.
- Epigenetic changes: Epigenetic modifications are alterations in gene expression patterns that do not involve changes in the underlying DNA sequence. With age, epigenetic modifications can accumulate and affect gene expression, potentially leading to altered cellular function and increased disease risk.
You may have noticed that almost all of these are also biomarkers of aging.
These components of cellular health can undergo changes with age, collectively contributing to cellular aging and increased susceptibility to age-related diseases. However, it’s important to note that lifestyle factors, including a healthy diet, regular exercise, stress management, and avoidance of harmful habits, can help mitigate some of these age-related cellular changes and support cellular health.
Looking after your cellular health will improve your overall health gradually.