Genomes optimize reproduction: aging as a consequence of the developmental program.
Natural selection shapes genomes for reproduction, not for postreproductive survival. One hypothesis then is that the developmental program, optimized for reproduction, inadvertently regulates aging in mammals. Herein we review, revive, and refine the developmental theory of aging. Implications and experimental approaches for studying the progressive deterioration of physiological function that we call aging are also discussed.
de Magalhães
João Pedro
JP
Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA. jp@senescence.info
Church
George M
GM
D016922:Cellular Senescence / Q000235:genetics*; D018507:Gene Expression Regulation, Developmental; D016678:Genome; D006801:Humans; D008136:Longevity / Q000235:genetics*; D012098:Reproduction / Q000235:genetics*