P1 Explain theories of ageing
P2 Explain factors influencing ageing
M1 Analyse theories of ageing in relation to nature/nurture
Biological
Genetic pre-programming theory
The genetic pre-programming theory of ageing suggest that human cells have a built in time
limit to their reproduction, and that after a certain time they are no longer able to divide.This
theory states that ageing is an essential part of the biology of humans and that it is
programmed into our bodies. The three main systems that are connected with ageing are the
endocrine system, the immune system, and our genes. These systems change over the
course of an individual's life, and these changes cause the symptoms of ageing. Ageing and
death, according to this theory, are not because of exposure, environmental factors or
disease, but are a natural part of human genetics.
Certain genes can be passed between parent and child which carry diseases or illnesses
which can influence or speed up the process of ageing.
This theory has three subtheories. These are: programmed longevity, endocrine theory, and
immunological theory. Programmed Longevity considers ageing to be the result of a certain
genes being switched on and off. Endocrine Theory believes that the biological clocks act
through hormones to control the pace of ageing. Immunological Theory states that the
immune system is programmed to decline over time, which causes the body to become
more vulnerable to disease, ageing and death.
The genetic pre-programming theory is natural and is on the side of nature in regards to the
nature vs nurture debate. The process of ageing is built into the genetic coding of an
individual. Genes that are passed between parent and child are caused by nature and have
nothing to do with the environment. However steps can be taken in regards to the steps a
person can take to stop themselves from developing that disease. For example an individual
who carries a breast cancer gene can have their breasts removed to stop the cancer from
developing, which is a nurture impact but they cannot remove the gene. Genetic therapy is
advancing all of the time and much research is being done which could impact hugely in the
future helping people remove defective genes before carrying pregnancies. There are ethical
considerations here though as many believe it will lead to designer babies.
https://www.verywellhealth.com/programmed-theories-of-aging-2224226
The Free Radical Theory
This theory was developed by Dr. Denham Harman but was introduced by R. Gerschman.
The Free Radical Theory believes that ageing is due to the effects of free radicals. Free
radicals are highly reactive molecules which contain an extra electrical charge. They are
created through oxygen metabolism. The theory believes that the free radicals react with
proteins, fats, DNA, and RNA and this causes damage to the cells in the body. This damage
builds up over time and accelerates ageing. Studies to back up this argument have shown
that increasing the number of antioxidants in the diet of mice can slow the effects of ageing.
Natural substances within our cells such as antioxidants neutralize the free radicals.
A negative of this theory is that it does not fully explain all of the changes that occur during
ageing only that free radicals and involved. As well as this, there is evidence in other studies
which suggest free radicals are beneficial to the body in some cases and that consuming
antioxidants have the opposite intended effect.
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