Mechanisms of Aging: Key Effectors and Rational Targets

A central objective of this Biology of Aging Gordon Research Conference is to stimulate discussion of the interdependence of genetic, functional and environmental interactions in determining and potentially combating negative consequences of age-related changes and diseases. This includes investigations of structure and function that characterize normal aging and biochemical, genetic and physiological understanding of mechanisms of aging. Critically important for human wellbeing are investigations of the adverse changes that are risk factors, which contribute to or accompany age-related disease states in humans and animal models. Over the last several years a rudimentary understanding of some aging mechanisms have been generated. In organisms such as yeast, C. elegans and Drosophila, molecular genetic studies have defined many of the genes that determine life span and identification of which gene expression changes functionally associate with aging are underway. In rodents, many biochemical pathways strongly associate with aging and life span. These are now being confirmed and further studied using knockout and transgenic strategies. The insulin/insulin-like growth factor pathway appears to be an evolutionarily conserved mechanism that controls longevity and investigations into specific aspects of metabolism are revealing key effectors and potential targets. Thus, our field is continuing to mature as we develop a deeper understanding of aging mechanisms applicable across species and develop strategies to intervene in these processes in order to extend lifespan and health span.

The underlying goal of the program is to encourage participants to critically evaluate the latest insights into the aging process from the molecular to the whole organism, defining rational approaches to health span extension. There will be an emphasis upon aging at the integrative level and consideration of inflammation as a pleiotropic effector of the pathology associated with aging. Lifestyle, genetic, and pharmacological interventions will also form a significant element of the meeting program.