Glossary
Note
This glossary defines terms as they are generally used in the field of geroscience. Definitions may evolve as research progresses.
- Autophagy
- A cellular "cleanup" process where cells degrade and recycle their own damaged components.
- Biological Age
- A measure of an individual's development and physiological health status, distinct from their chronological age (years since birth).
- Chronological Age
- The amount of time that has passed from your birth to the given date.
- Epigenetics
- The study of changes in organisms caused by modification of gene expression rather than alteration of the genetic code itself.
- Gerontology
- The scientific study of old age, the process of ageing, and the particular problems of old people.
- Geroscience
- An interdisciplinary field that seeks to understand the genetic, molecular, and cellular mechanisms that make ageing a major risk factor and driver of common chronic diseases.
- Healthspan
- The part of a person's life during which they are generally in good health.
- Lifespan
- The length of time for which a person or animal lives or a thing functions.
- Morbidity
- The condition of suffering from a disease or medical condition.
- Senescence (Cellular)
- A phenomenon where cells cease to divide but remain metabolically active, often secreting inflammatory factors.