The field of aging research has experienced significant breakthroughs over the past decade, particularly with respect to the molecular mechanisms that dictate the aging process. Historically, the quest to understand how and why organisms age has been a central theme in biology, fueled by the growing global aging population and the prevalence of age-related diseases. Many questions remain unresolved, such as the precise molecular signals that initiate cellular aging and the potential points of intervention to promote healthier lifespans. Recently, landmark studies have shed light on fundamental mechanisms - ranging from chromosomal dynamics, impaired proteostasis, and disruptions in nutrient sensing pathways, to the roles of stem cell exhaustion and lipid signaling - each contributing uniquely to the phenomenon of aging. Yet, despite these achievements, translating molecular insights into effective anti-aging therapies or preventive strategies remains a formidable challenge.

This Research Topic aims to provide a comprehensive synthesis of recent advances in the molecular mechanisms driving aging, highlight critical gaps and controversies, and propose new questions that can steer future research. By bringing together evidence from across biological and biomedical disciplines, the objective is to deepen our understanding of how intricate molecular and cellular interactions contribute to aging and the onset of related syndromes. Specifically, we seek to clarify essential pathways underlying aging, elucidate the interplay between aging and external challenges such as COVID-19, and examine the molecular foundation of conditions like osteosarcopenia. The ultimate goal is to inspire novel strategies for mitigating age-associated decline and optimizing healthy aging.

To gather further insights in the molecular mechanisms of aging, this Research Topic is limited to mechanistic and translational studies that unravel the biochemical, genetic, and cellular basis of aging, without focusing on descriptive or purely epidemiological work. We welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

- Chromosomal dynamics and their role in aging
- Proteostasis and its impact on cellular function
- Nutrient sensing and metabolic adaptation in aging
- Lipid signaling pathways and their mediators in aging processes
- Stem cell functionality and deterioration with age
- Identification and validation of aging-specific biomarkers
- Links between aging and COVID-19
- Molecular mechanisms of osteosarcopenia and related systemic disorders

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Insights in Molecular Mechanisms of Aging 2024/2025