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Updated: Jul 15, 2025

Studying Age-dependent Genomic Instability using the S. cerevisiae Chronological Lifespan Model
Published on: September 29, 2011
Genomic Instability and Epigenetic Changes during Aging
Lucía López-Gil1,2, Amparo Pascual-Ahuir1, Markus Proft2
1Department of Biotechnology, Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Plantas, Universitat Politècnica de València, Ingeniero Fausto Elio s/n, 46022 Valencia, Spain.
Abstract:
Aging is considered the deterioration of physiological functions along with an increased mortality rate. This scientific review focuses on the central importance of genomic instability during the aging process, encompassing a range of cellular and molecular changes that occur with advancing age. In particular, this revision addresses the genetic and epigenetic alterations that contribute to genomic instability, such as telomere shortening, DNA damage accumulation, and decreased DNA repair capacity. Furthermore, the review explores the epigenetic changes that occur with aging, including modifications to histones, DNA methylation patterns, and the role of non-coding RNAs. Finally, the review discusses the organization of chromatin and its contribution to genomic instability, including heterochromatin loss, chromatin remodeling, and changes in nucleosome and histone abundance. In conclusion, this review highlights the fundamental role that genomic instability plays in the aging process and underscores the need for continued research into these complex biological mechanisms.
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