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The Power of a Complex Systems Perspective to Elucidate Aging
Alan A Cohen1, Marcel G M Olde Rikkert2
1Robert N. Butler Columbia Aging Center and Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA.
Integrative research combining aging mechanisms with biomedical, social, and environmental factors is key for advancing geriatric healthcare. Complexity science offers new ways to understand and quantify healthy aging and disease vulnerability.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Complexity Science
- Integrative Biology
Background:
- Aging research traditionally relies on reductionist methods.
- Geriatric healthcare requires a holistic approach integrating various factors.
- Complexity science offers a framework for understanding aging as a multiscale phenomenon.
Discussion:
- This special issue explores applying complexity science to aging research.
- Papers cover interactions between aging mechanisms and diverse influencing factors.
- A dynamic, multiscale perspective is crucial for analyzing aging processes.
Key Insights:
- Biomarkers, aging clocks, frailty, and resilience are examined within a complex systems framework.
- Understanding interactions between biological, social, and environmental factors is vital.
- Complexity science aids in quantifying healthy aging and disease vulnerability.
Outlook:
- New research horizons in gerontology are emerging through systems-based approaches.
- Innovative interventions for healthy aging can be developed using complexity principles.
- Complexity science provides a pathway for a more comprehensive understanding of aging.
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