Lifespan with Dr. David Sinclair cover image

The Science Behind Why We Age | Episode 1

Lifespan with Dr. David Sinclair

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The Reason We Age

The reason we age is because the packaging of the DNA in our cells becomes disorganized and genes that shouldn't be turned on start to activate. This loss of proper DNA packaging, called epigenetic changes, leads to cells becoming confused and de-differentiated, resulting in the aging process. The DNA in our cells is neatly packed around proteins called histones, creating structures called chromosomes. Only a small portion of the DNA, comparable to the readable part of a cassette tape, is accessible and active at any given time. This specific DNA packaging is essential for cells to maintain their specialized functions. However, as we age, the DNA becomes unspooled and genes that should remain inactive start to activate, causing cells to lose their specific functions. This disorganized DNA packaging is believed to be a root cause of aging.

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