Evolutionary Biology of AgingOxford University Press, 27.10.1994 - 240 Seiten This unique book looks at the biology of aging from a fundamentally new perspective, one based on evolutionary theory rather than traditional concepts which emphasize molecular and cellular processes. The basis for this approach lies in the fact that natural selection, as a powerful determining force, tends to decline in importance with age. Many of the characteristics we associate with aging, the author argues, are more the result of this decline than any mechanical imperative contained within organic structures. This theory in turn yields the most fruitful avenues for seeking answers to the problem of aging, and should be recognized as the intellectual core of gerontology and the foundation for future research. The author ably surveys the vast literature on aging, presenting mathematical, experimental, and comparative findings to illustrate and support the central thesis. The result is the first complete synthesis of this vital field. Evolutionary biologists, gerontologists, and all those concerned with the science of aging will find it a stimulating, strongly argued account. |
Inhalt
3 | |
2 Observation of Aging | 17 |
3 Experimental Tests of the Evolutionary Theory of Aging | 39 |
4 Genetic Mechanisms for the Evolution of Aging | 62 |
5 Comparative Biology of Aging | 79 |
6 An Evolutionary Perspective on Organismal Theories of Aging | 99 |
7 An Evolutionary Perspective on Cellular and Molecular Theories of Aging | 126 |
8 The Future of Gerontology | 160 |
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211 | |
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Häufige Begriffe und Wortgruppen
accumulation adult age-specific alleles antagonistic pleiotropy appear arise associated biology body cause cell cultures cells changes Chapter characters Charlesworth comparative components concerned culture death decline deleterious dependence deterioration discussed disease Drosophila early effects error evidence evolution of aging evolutionary theory example exhibit experimental experiments fecundity females Figure findings fitness force function genetic genetic correlations gerontology give given growth human hypothesis important increase indicate individuals involved known laboratory lack later levels limit lines living longevity males mammals mean measure mechanisms melanogaster molecular mortality mutation natural selection normal organismal organisms particular patterns performed physiological population positive possible postponed aging prediction present probability problem produce rates reason reduced relative reproduction requires restriction rise Rose senescence shown simply somatic span species stocks studies suggests temperature tests theory of aging tion variation vertebrates vitro