Does oxidative damage to DNA increase with age?
This is such an insightful article that opens up both questions and answers. Although this is also a rodent study, once again evidence is strong in support of similar effect in humans. First, do we have increased DNA damage with aging, or does the DNA damage lead to aging? Probably a mixture of both. Current theories of aging include oxidative damage, glycosylation of proteins and shortening of telomeres. Most likely, aging is a combination of all these factors and more. The increased oxidative stress to DNA may be more of a reduction in the protective factors present with younger patients.
PNAS — Abstracts: Hamilton et al. 98 (18): 10469
