Although there are many effective creams, surgeries, and other treatments that delay or erase signs of aging, it is still evident that genetics play a large role in determining how our skin ages.  One emerging theory regarding the part genes play in the aging process is gene silencing.  This theory posits that certain genes are essentially “silenced” as we age due to processes known as methylation and acetylation.  In other words, chemical reactions begin to prevent some genes from expressing themselves thereby interrupting necessary functions including cell repair and tumor suppression.

In the case of anti-aging studies, this silencing of certain genes has been linked to the body’s decreased ability to react to and fend off damage that causes wrinkles and other signs of aging over time.  Research suggests that there is the possibility of reactivating these silenced genes so that they can transmit their information and keep the body’s defense systems functioning properly.

The bulk of research in this field has been done on tumor suppressants and the use of antineoplastons to reactivate silenced genes that carry information necessary to halting the growth and reproduction of tumor cells.  These antineoplastons also appear to reactivate other silenced genes that are frequently linked to defending our skin and bodies against aging.

Gene therapy has become popular in the anti-aging battle as clinical studies in animals continue to uncover new ways of treating gene damage and silencing to maintain the gene integrity associated with youth.

As gene silencing is a relatively new theory, most of the clinical studies have been conducted only on animal subjects.  This theory has also been examined in light of combining gene reactivation with a calorie-restricted diet and moderate exercise to maximize the functionality of the body’s systems and increase longevity.   There is still a long way to go in researching the effects genes have on aging and ways in which we can prevent aging through gene therapy.  But these early studies on gene expression and reactivation are a promising start to what may become the new rage in anti-aging technologies.

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