Articles tagged with Gerontology
Researchers found that tissue-resident macrophages, responsible for clearing senescent cells, become dysfunctional with age, leading to chronic inflammation and organ damage. Blocking a specific receptor on these cells preserved youthfulness of multiple organs in mice.
Researchers discovered that senescent cells accumulate high levels of triacylglycerols and increase glycolytic activity, leading to increased lipid droplet accumulation. This finding suggests that lipid droplets may contribute to the harmful effects of senescent microglia in Alzheimer’s disease.
A recent study published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons found that older adults who undergo high-risk emergency general surgery spend significantly fewer days living independently at home after surgery. The researchers analyzed outcomes for nearly 30,000 individuals aged 66 and older using a patient-centered measure...
A new GSA report emphasizes the critical role of primary care providers in detecting and managing cognitive decline, with a focus on actionable insights for clinicians. The report highlights advances in diagnostic technology and modifiable lifestyle factors linked to brain health outcomes.
A new study reveals that macrophages, a key immune cell type, age differently across tissues and between sexes. The researchers found that aging macrophages become more focused on responding to stress and cellular damage, but lose some molecular programs involved in maintaining healthy tissue structure.
A new study found that simple weekly electronic symptom check-ins with care teams significantly improves the quality of life for individuals undergoing treatment for advanced cancer. The benefits were notable among patient groups that historically faced barriers to care, including Black patients and those with less formal education.
Sarcopenia affects over 60% of individuals above age 80 and is influenced by distinct biological mechanisms in women and men. Hormones like apelin, insulin, and oxytocin play a crucial role in maintaining healthy skeletal muscle, with sex-specific differences affecting muscle aging and disease progression.
Researchers found that ZIP9 deletion in mice led to premature death, spatial memory deficits, and reduced cognitive flexibility, with significant changes in PSD95, TNF-α, and IL-1β levels. The study suggests a brain–gut–key molecule network connecting cognitive function, gut microbiota, and lipid metabolism.
The Gerontological Society of America has named 50 new fellows for their outstanding contributions to the field of gerontology. The fellows, chosen from across GSA's membership groups, represent diverse activities including research, teaching, and public service.
The Gerontological Society of America honors researchers, leaders, and mentors who have made significant contributions to the field of aging. This year's awardees include Heather M. Young, Jeffrey M. Hausdorff, and Briana Mezuk, among others. Their work has been recognized for its excellence in teaching, research, and service.
Cellular senescence is a stable form of cell-cycle arrest induced by intrinsic and extrinsic stimuli. The review highlights the importance of understanding how different initiating events shape distinct senescent cell phenotypes, contributing to chronic inflammation, tissue dysfunction, cancer, and age-related diseases.
A comprehensive systematic review clarifies life expectancy across rare progeria disorders, revealing striking differences among subtypes. The analysis demonstrates that patients with Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome have a median survival of 16 years, while those with mandibuloacral dysplasia type B have a median survival of 37 ye...
Recent research suggests that senescence often limits stem cell activity in normal tissues but can also promote tumor progression in cancer. Understanding the dynamic interplay between these two biological processes is crucial for developing safer regenerative therapies and more effective cancer treatments.
Researchers found that a 12-week lifestyle program combining exercise guidance, dietary counseling, and daily yogurt consumption significantly slowed DunedinPACE, an epigenetic measure of biological aging. The intervention resulted in a modest but statistically significant slowing of the pace of aging, corresponding to a 2.2% reduction.
A study by Osaka Metropolitan University found that Japan's Location Optimization Plan can lead to higher care burdens in small municipalities. Small cities with populations under 50,000 saw increased Long-Term Care Insurance certification counts after adopting the policy, indicating rising service demands.
The GSA has released a new online version of the KAER Toolkit, providing practical tools to integrate evidence-based obesity care into routine practice. The toolkit emphasizes treating obesity as a chronic disease and includes strategies for managing older adults using medications.
A new study published in Cell Metabolism found that a low-protein, amino acid-supplemented 'longevity diet' improved cardiometabolic markers and reduced frailty and fat mass in mice. The diet was associated with longer healthy lifespan and better metabolic health in both mice and humans.
A new study reveals that p38MAP kinase plays a central role in regulating senescence-related changes in human muscle cells. The researchers developed a human cell-based model to investigate how senescence develops in skeletal muscle cells and identified a signaling pathway that appears to drive aging in mature muscle fibers.
A Hiroshima University study finds that practical digital skills, positive financial attitudes, and self-protection are more consistently associated with lower old-age anxiety than traditional financial knowledge alone. The study suggests that financial education may need to move beyond knowledge alone in the digital age.
The Global Conference on Gerophysics brought together researchers from various disciplines to develop predictive models of aging. Key findings include the application of physical principles, such as thermodynamics and network theory, to biological systems. The conference highlighted the importance of collaboration between theory and ex...
The Gerontological Society of America has renewed funding for the Journalists in Aging Fellows Program, which has produced over 900 news stories since its inception in 2010. The program aims to educate journalists about aging issues and disseminate information on scientific findings, policy debates, and innovations.
A new study reveals substantial differences in gene expression patterns between aging mouse and human skeletal muscle. Fewer than 5% of biological pathways show shared changes, emphasizing the need for cross-species targets in aging research.
Delirium is a common and preventable complication in older surgical patients, with verified geriatric surgery programs screening nearly every patient. Non-accredited hospitals screen only half of their patients for delirium, leading to a stark gap in care.
BIO-VITAL brings together leading scientists in aging biology to support industry partners evaluating novel gerotherapeutics. The program combines Einstein's decades of leadership in aging research with specialized research cores, proprietary models, and translational capabilities.
A pilot study of the Participant Engagement Portal (PEP) tool shows that 84% of participants had a positive experience, with high usability and satisfaction rates. PEP facilitates two-way communication between patients and clinicians, allowing for self-reporting of social risk factors and future research opportunities.
A recent study found that melanoma disproportionately affects Florida's senior population, with older men experiencing twice as many skin cancer-related deaths as women. The study highlights gaps in prevention and early detection, particularly among men and non-Hispanic populations.
Cellular senescence has emerged as a key biological process linked to aging and age-related disease. Researchers have identified major features of senescence, including stable proliferative arrest and the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP), which can influence inflammation and tissue dysfunction.
A large Japanese study found that maintaining a healthier profile with lower lifestyle and health risks can significantly lower dementia risk in people with one or no APOE ε4 alleles. However, individuals carrying two APOE ε4 alleles may require different preventive or therapeutic approaches.
Researchers found that senescent myoblasts released EVs carrying specific miRNAs that impaired normal muscle cell development and triggered cellular stress responses in healthy muscle cells. The study suggests that extracellular vesicles may play a role in shaping the aging muscle environment.
LGBTQ+ adults over 50 face disparities in health care, mental health, and social connections compared to non-LGBTQ+ peers. They are more likely to experience discrimination and feel isolated from others.
A new study found that DNA methylation aging biomarkers, such as GrimAge2 and DunedinPoAm, significantly mediate the relationship between social disadvantage and mortality risk. The findings suggest that epigenetic aging measures capture the cumulative effects of multiple social and environmental stressors.
Researchers found that structured lifestyle programs with coaching and accountability can reduce frailty in older adults by promoting healthy habits. The two-year US POINTER trial showed significant improvements in overall health and frailty scores among participants who followed the structured program.
The editorial highlights the growing importance of public health interventions to extend healthspan alongside lifespan. Key findings include the need for integrated strategies addressing environmental, metabolic, social, and behavioral exposures that accelerate biological aging and increase vulnerability to chronic disease. The authors...
A new study found that handwriting speed and stroke organization can be indicative of cognitive decline in older adults. The research used digital tools to record writing speed and number of strokes in complex tasks, and found that participants with cognitive impairment showed distinct patterns in their handwriting movements.
The study found that methylene blue significantly enhanced stem cell proliferation and viability while reducing intracellular reactive oxygen species. MB also increased activation of β-catenin signaling, a central pathway involved in hair follicle regeneration, stem cell maintenance, and wound repair.
A new study suggests that an earlier first sexual intercourse may be associated with a less favorable multidimensional aging profile, including shorter longevity and higher frailty. The researchers found that genetic differences in early sexual debut were linked to poorer health outcomes later in life.
Dr. Lauren B. Gerlach has made significant contributions to health services and aging research, particularly in the area of medication safety and prescribing practices for older adults with dementia. Her work aims to support safer, more person-centered care.
A study published in JMIR Aging predicts early mobility decline in healthy adults aged 45 using a set of home-based measurements and AI. The researchers identified six essential factors, including age, muscle power, and diet, that accurately predict future mobility struggles.
A study published in Aging Cell found that reducing dietary fat or animal-based protein can reduce 'biological age' in older adults. After just four weeks, participants showed significant reductions in biomarker profiles indicative of improved health and aging outcomes.
A recent study reveals that an individual's readiness to adopt smart technology is deeply tied to their specific experience within their home and community. Researchers identified specific clusters within the older population, ranging from tech-ready urbanites to those in more traditional or isolated residential settings.
The partnership aims to generate evidence on the potential of MitoQ to slow or improve markers of biological ageing and support longevity. Mitochondria-targeted antioxidants like MitoQ are crucial in producing energy while reducing oxidative stress, a key contributor to ageing.
The study reveals that human TERT is only compatible with non-human primate cells, while other species show limited or no telomere lengthening. This highlights the importance of using suitable preclinical models for telomerase-based therapies.
The ASPIRE trial aims to enroll 1,200 participants with advanced prostate cancer and assess the impact of chemotherapy on overall survival and disease progression. Genetic profiling is included to identify patients who benefit most from intensified treatment.
A new study by University of Mississippi researchers finds significant shortages in adult day services across the state, leaving thousands without daily support. The state would need an additional 910 centers to meet demand, with funding being a primary cause of shortages.
Researchers identified stage-specific gene expression changes that occur during cellular senescence, revealing an early immune-activating response and a shift in cellular priorities. This study offers new insight into the molecular mechanisms of aging and highlights potential therapeutic strategies for delaying age-related decline.
A new hypothesis proposes that introducing Hydra-like gene expression patterns into rotifers could delay senescence and extend healthspan. The study focuses on conserved molecular pathways, including FoxO, which plays a central role in maintaining stem cell function and cellular resilience.
A new UK study found that many heat-related deaths occur during lower-level alerts, highlighting widespread gaps in awareness and response. Older people are particularly vulnerable to these risks, with lower engagement with warnings leaving them exposed.
A web tool called Living Memory Home for Dementia Care Pairs facilitates collaborative reminiscence therapy, reducing feelings of pre-death grief and improving relationship quality. The app promotes well-being and connection between dementia patients and caregivers, leading to better care outcomes.
A study reveals that older adults receiving government-funded home care struggle to access the support they need, often feeling overwhelmed by complex systems and limited budgets. The research highlights a significant gap in the program's capacity to provide person-centered care, particularly in areas like nutrition.
The 12th ARDD meeting emphasized the importance of reversing biological age and identifying molecular mechanisms that can be targeted to modify them. Researchers presented new biomarkers and AI-designed proteins to develop novel therapeutics, with a focus on integrated, multi-targeted therapeutic strategies.
A new gene catalogue provides comprehensive insights into premature aging disorders, highlighting the central role of genome maintenance and DNA repair pathways. The catalogue organizes genetic and clinical information for 56 syndromes and 160 distinct clinical entities, offering a valuable framework for future research.
A Rutgers Health study reveals that neighborhoods with greater access to community amenities, services, and infrastructure can reduce the risk of dementia in older Chinese immigrants. The researchers found that individuals living in more cognitively supportive neighborhoods declined more slowly with age.
A new study published in BMJ Open suggests that US states have experienced universal gains in cohort life expectancy between 1941 and 2000, with a two-phase pattern of rapid convergence followed by stagnation. This challenges previous estimates suggesting stark disparities across states, particularly in the South.
Researchers at the University of Waterloo have discovered a safer and more effective way to treat Alzheimer's disease by combining anti-amyloid antibodies with molecules found in grapes, berries, peanuts, and turmeric. This combination approach neutralizes amyloid protein clumping in the brain, leading to better outcomes.