Ever since the cellular clock called telomerase was discovered, it was hailed as the next big thing in anti-aging research. And the science world has been divided in two. One side evoked unlimited cell regeneration that might make degenerative diseases a memory of the past. The other side cautioned us that cancer cells unlock telomerase…… Continue reading The 8 frequently asked questions on telomerase and aging
Tag: comparative gerontology
10 animal species that made cancer a thing of the past
Although physicians have better technologies today to uproot cancer from the human body, receiving a diagnosis of cancer is still a very stressful ordeal, even when it is cured in the end or even when the tumor is not proved to be malignant in the first place! Lifestyle is important in preventing cancer, but at…… Continue reading 10 animal species that made cancer a thing of the past
Aging is a puzzle to solve.
This process is traditionally studied in a couple of biological models like fruit flies, worms and mice. What all these species have in common is their fast aging. This is excellent for lab budgets. It is a great short-term strategy. Who has time to study species that live for decades? But lifespan differences among species…… Continue reading Aging is a puzzle to solve.
Cortisol – the aging hormone
Bringing offspring into the world is much more stressful for salmons compared to humans, even if the two species secrete the same stress hormone, cortisol. Unlike humans, salmon fish age soon after spawning. They undergo a massive hypertrophy of the interrenal gland. Because of this, they secrete massive amounts of corticosteroids. They usually die…… Continue reading Cortisol – the aging hormone