Researchers concluded that the aging of the body occurs not gradually, but in two noticeable "jumps" — around the ages of 44 and 60.
Human aging can occur not smoothly, but in sharp stages. This is the conclusion reached by researchers studying molecular changes in the human body. According to scientists, the most noticeable age changes occur around the ages of 44 and 60.
The study was conducted by specialists from Stanford University. They observed 108 volunteers for several years, who regularly provided biological samples — blood, skin swabs, oral and nasal cavity samples, as well as other materials for analysis. As a result, the scientists analyzed more than 135,000 different biological indicators and over 246 billion data points.
The researchers noted that approximately 81% of molecules in the body changed particularly actively during two age periods — in the mid-40s and early 60s.
The first "aging jump" at the age of 40 is associated with changes in the metabolism of fats, caffeine, and alcohol, as well as an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases and deterioration of skin and muscle condition. The second — around the age of 60 — concerns the immune system, kidney function, carbohydrate metabolism, and subsequent aging of muscles and skin.
Initially, the scientists hypothesized that changes in the mid-40s could be primarily related to menopause in women. However, similar processes were also found in men. This indicates the existence of other biological aging mechanisms that still need to be studied.
At the same time, the authors note: the sample size was relatively small, so the results require further confirmation in larger studies.
In the opinion of the editorial team, the study shows that age-related changes may develop much more complexly than previously thought. Understanding such "critical points" of aging may help scientists more effectively prevent age-related diseases and extend active longevity in the future.
