The role of animal models in meeting the gerontologic challenge of the 21st century.
Animal models play an important role in our quest to understand aging and develop interventions needed for the gerontologic challenge of the 21st century. Results from studies using the dietary restriction rodent model are presented as an example. Dietary restriction slows aging by inhibiting primary aging processes, by enhancing broadly protective mechanisms, or by both. Further study should identify the mechanisms and yield a data base for development of interventions. A threat to attaining these yields is the growing opposition of some to this use of animals.
Masoro
E J
EJ
Department of Physiology, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio 78284-7756.
D000375:Aging / Q000502:physiology*; D000818:Animals; D000830:Animals, Laboratory / Q000502:physiology*; D004032:Diet; D005853:Geriatrics; D006801:Humans; D008954:Models, Biological; D012106:Research; D012377:Rodentia / Q000502:physiology