The scientific definition of aging is the deterioration over time resulting in physiological changes. Many evolutionary biologists believe that aging has nothing to do with genetics (Arking). Once, an animal serves its purpose it is able to die off. The purpose being to produce and raise offspring (Gilbert). This happens with many organisms like moths and salmon. In these types of animals the parent dies off after the egg is fertilized and laid. This theory only works if all of the requirements of natural selection are met (Arking).
Recently studies have started to discredit that aging has nothing to do with genetics. The reason being that the life span through species can be shortened or lengthened depending on diet or gene alternation (Gilbert). All species have a change of phenotype with aging. Physical signs of aging in humans can be the greying of hair, sagging of skin, or eyesight deterioration. However, aging can go much more in depth when it gets to the cellular level (Arking). …show more content…
The theory states that as one gets older, small traumas to the body start to build up . What might have easily healed at the age of twenty-two will heal slower and less efficiently at the age of sixty-two. As age increases strength decreases and body functions don’t work the same (Gilbert). Point mutations increase in number the older that one gets. Then enzyme efficiency encoded by genes start to decrease. This is the basis on the wear and tear theory. Evolutionary biologist that support this are saying that the more you use something or the older it is the more worn out it is
Recently studies have started to discredit that aging has nothing to do with genetics. The reason being that the life span through species can be shortened or lengthened depending on diet or gene alternation (Gilbert). All species have a change of phenotype with aging. Physical signs of aging in humans can be the greying of hair, sagging of skin, or eyesight deterioration. However, aging can go much more in depth when it gets to the cellular level (Arking). …show more content…
The theory states that as one gets older, small traumas to the body start to build up . What might have easily healed at the age of twenty-two will heal slower and less efficiently at the age of sixty-two. As age increases strength decreases and body functions don’t work the same (Gilbert). Point mutations increase in number the older that one gets. Then enzyme efficiency encoded by genes start to decrease. This is the basis on the wear and tear theory. Evolutionary biologist that support this are saying that the more you use something or the older it is the more worn out it is