Over a decade ago, five researchers introduced the Hallmarks of Ageing paradigm, outlining key cellular and molecular processes driving ageing, such as genomic instability, telomere attrition, mitochondrial dysfunction, and chronic inflammation. These interconnected pathways contribute to age-related decline and diseases. In this episode, Matt reviews each hallmark, discusses the paradigm's limitations, and explores its implications for geroscience.

Key Points:

The Hallmarks of Aging, proposed by five researchers, describe key processes like telomere shortening and mitochondrial dysfunction that lead to ageing and age-related diseases. In this episode, Matt breaks down each hallmark, explores its limitations, and discusses its role in advancing geroscience.

• Introduction to Hallmarks of ageing: The podcast introduces the Hallmarks of Aging, first proposed in 2013, which describe biological processes involved in ageing across species.
• Criteria for Hallmarks: Hallmarks must meet three criteria: they manifest with age, accelerating them speeds ageing, and reducing them can slow or reverse ageing.
• Recent Updates: Originally featuring nine hallmarks, the list has expanded to 12, with new additions reflecting advancements in understanding ageing biology.
• Key Hallmarks Highlighted: The podcast touches on genomic instability, telomere attrition, mitochondrial dysfunction, and epigenetic alterations, among others.
• Criticisms of the Hallmarks Paradigm: Some criticize the framework for being arbitrary, incomplete, or not fully relevant to humans, but the host argues they remain useful for guiding research.
• Future Directions in ageing Research: The podcast emphasizes the need for humility, recognizing the field's limitations, and encourages exploring beyond the Hallmarks to uncover deeper insights into ageing.