By this point, I’m sure the vast majority of people have heard about free radicals and the theory that cellular damage and damage to cell DNA can cause signs of aging as well as health issues. Over the past decade, a great deal of research has emerged linking DNA damage to premature signs of aging. Much of this damage is attributed to mutations and the oxidation process skin cells endure due to the presence of free radicals and other stressors.

More recent studies have linked the rate of DNA damage associated with aging primarily to genetics rather than outside influence. The ability of the body to repair damaged DNA naturally decreases as we age, leaving us more susceptible to outward signs of aging like wrinkles and dull, sagging skin. Basically, our body is programmed on a timeline that determines our overall lifespan. As we move down that timeline, our bodies deteriorate due to the aging process as well as environmental influences. Our genes determine the rate at which our bodies age naturally and our lifestyles most likely increase or decrease this rate.

How it works. Essentially, DNA is responsible for transcribing RNA, which in turn produces vital proteins to keep our bodies functioning properly. As we age, normal wear and tear on DNA can mutate or damage the DNA structure. If the DNA is mutated, meaning one piece of genetic information is substituted for another, the transcription process will yield proteins with altered or decreased abilities. If the DNA is damaged through occurrences like strand breaks or cross-linking, part of the genetic information will actually be missing. Of the two, DNA damage is most often linked to the aging process while DNA mutations are often associated with health concerns.

By nature, our cells will attempt to repair the damaged DNA and prevent the breakdowns in structure that cause or at least contribute to outward signs of aging. If the cells are unable to repair the DNA, the last option for ridding the body of the offending damaged DNA is apoptosis, or cell suicide. As we age, our body’s ability to repair DNA damage decreases. Cells that escape repair and suicide create structural break downs that lead to premature aging.

A number of studies have been done on the effects of DNA damage on the aging process and several options for gene replacement therapy have been explored and employed. However, results remain inconclusive.

Stop the signs of aging today! Find anti-aging products that will erase the wrinkles you already have and prevent more from forming. Click here for information on the leading anti-wrinkle creams on the market.