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Updated: Aug 8, 2026
12:24
Quantifying Yeast Chronological Life Span by Outgrowth of Aged Cells
Published on: May 6, 2009
Ageing, information and the magical number seven
1Department of Pathology, Lancaster Moor Hospital, UK.
Medical Hypotheses
|November 1, 1992
Summary
Information theory concepts predict human aging and mortality rates using a novel equation. This model also explains increased infection severity from delayed microbial exposure, suggesting
Area of Science:
- Biophysics
- Information Theory
- Gerontology
Background:
- Human aging and mortality patterns are complex.
- Understanding the underlying biological mechanisms is crucial.
- Information processing may play a role in aging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To apply information theory to model human aging.
- To derive an equation predicting mortality rates.
- To investigate the link between information processing redundancy and disease severity.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing principles from information theory and general systems.
- Developing a mathematical equation based on information system properties.
- Analyzing observed mortality data.
Main Results:
- A derived equation accurately predicts old-age mortality rates.
- The equation also predicts increased infection severity with delayed microbial exposure.
- Observed redundancy in human information processing is sevenfold.
Conclusions:
- Information theory provides a predictive framework for human aging.
- A redundancy parameter suggests 'seven' may be a fundamental biological constant.
- Delayed exposure to microorganisms impacts disease severity across the lifespan.
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