lecture 3: theory of aging

Question 1

define a loss of homeostasis

Answer 1

• breakdown in maintenance of specific molecular structures and pathways
• some are unique to the specific cellular and tissue context of specific organ
• some are due to the overall organ system being stressed

Question 2

Targeted DNA damage

Answer 2

• Targeted DNA damage = cumulative deletions, mutations, and translocation

Question 3

mitochondrial DNA damage

Answer 3

• mitochondrial DNA damage = alters efficiency of respiration/ATP production (more free radicals)

Question 4

Telomere

Answer 4

• Telomere = loss of activity and length

Question 5

Developmental genetic

Answer 5

• aging result from genetically programmed induction

Question 6

error catastrophe

Answer 6

• cumulative errors in RNA and protein synthesis

Question 7

Free radicals

Answer 7

• highly reactive oxygen derived free radicals damage protein, lipid and DNA

Question 8

accumulation theory

Answer 8

• abnormal proteins are not removed

Question 9

endocrine theory

Answer 9

• levels of secretions of hormones (growth, cortisol, glucocorticoids)

Question 10

Immunologic

Answer 10

• time acquired deficits in immune response and T cell function

Question 11

nutritional model theory

Answer 11

• if animal fed 50-60% less than it eats on its own = lives longer
• assumption = lean mass as opposed to adipose tissue results in greater health and age

Question 12

what are syndromes that cause premature aging

Answer 12

• Down syndrome
• werner syndrome
• Progeria (hutchinson-gilford)
• klinefelter syndrome
• turner syndrome
• myotonic dystrophy

Question 13

Clinker theory

Answer 13

• potential harmful substances accumulate in the body
• substances interfere passively with body functions
• example would be amyloid (protein) accumulates in heart and brain

Question 14

calcium theory***

Answer 14

• Abnormal Calcium movements results from:
• -> free radical damage
• -> inadequate energy supply from damaged mitochondria
• -> increased glucocorticoids
• ABNORMAL CALCIUM leads to abnormal CELL FUNCTION especially in muscle, nerve and blood vessels

Question 15

neuro-aging theory

Answer 15

• all cells undergo nervous system degeneration
• this results in changes in hormonal release
• leads to decline in cell function
  (not as prominent of a theory)

Question 16

How to deal with aging

Answer 16

• Regardless of how the aging process happens, the way your patient handles the changes that come with aging is perhaps the MOST INFLUENTIAL FACTOR in defining the impact on their health
• ATTITUDE PLAYS A ROLE in several ways:
• -> how well your patient lives
• -> how long they may live

Question 17

What are things to talk to patients about living a long life

Answer 17

• Reach out
• eat right, exercise, sleep (sleep early, wake early)
• keep the activities in check
• practices forgiveness
• change will come, learn to accept it
• humor
• what gives meaning to your life
• avoid negative people

Question 18

describe the impact of social/friendships have on life

Answer 18

• extends your life
• recovery times are faster
• immunity is higher
• mental health (reduces anxiety, protects against mental decline)

Question 19

what are some things to challenge your patients with

Answer 19

• social support
• religion and spirituality
• work their brain
• work their body
• eat well
• avoid drugs, tobacco products and excessive alcohol
• small changes add up