Abstract
The potential lifespan of a species, defined as the duration of life of the longest survivors, is determined by genetic factors which control the rate of cellular and organ development and involution. However, the incidence of disease increases exponentially with age (Simms, 1946), and longevity of individuals within a species is also determined by an absence of genetic susceptibility to disease and the maintenance of a vigorous and well-balanced immune system which continues to cope with environmental stimuli and internal degenerative changes. The thymus, a principal lymphoid organ, is governed by a genetic “time clock” which programs its involution with age. Environmental influences can accelerate or delay this natural process. Concomitant with thymic involution is a progressive decline in immune function. The incidence of autoimmune, neoplastic and infectious diseases increases dramatically as immune and immunoregulatory functions decline, and such diseases are hallmarks of the aging process. In this report we will present theories and experimental findings from our laboratory and others on the subject of the interaction between genetic and environmental factors affecting longevity, focusing on the immune system as a major interface between genetic aging programs and the environment.
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Anderson, D.J., Watson, A.L.M., Yunis, E.J. (1985). Environmental and Genetic Factors that Influence Immunity and Longevity in Mice. In: Woodhead, A.D., Blackett, A.D., Hollaender, A. (eds) Molecular Biology of Aging. Basic Life Sciences, vol 35. Springer, Boston, MA. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4899-2218-2_14
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4899-2218-2_14
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