AGEING
Immortality is one of humanity most enduring quests. Alchemists have tried to brew
it; adventures have gone looking for it. And now scientists think humans could one day routinely live to 140 years or more. They say, an understanding of how aging affects our bodies at the cellular level may make it possible to extend human life by several decades, while preserving health and retaining the semblance of youth.
What causes aging?
According to study in the July 15, 2005 issue of the journal science, the buildup of small mutation in the DNA triggers aging in mice. The DNA mutations accumulate especially in each cell mitochondria the –energy plant for a cell. When these mitochondria shut-of, so do the cells. This in turn leads to the typical signs of aging like graying hair, deterioration in vision and hearing, loss of muscle and weakened bones.
Toward Immortality-Another experiment with mice, first reported in proceedings of the national academy of science, demonstrated that middle –aged mice could achieve an average 15% longer life.DNA micro array analysis showed that the mice actually became younger. The results were achieved using calorie restriction(C R) limiting intake of dietary energy, without reducing vitamins, minerals and other important nutrients in the diet. Tests on mice, spiders and house flies have shown that CR lowers cholesterols and blood pressure, but no study has been done to see if it actually extends life span.
Marriage-as life spans increase, there will be a shift in emphasis from marriage as a life long union to marriage as along term commitment. Multiple, brief marriages could become common.
Family- If each marriage produces
children and couples continue having children
beginning in their 20s and 30s, then eight or even 10 generation might be alive simultaneously.
Careers- Retirement age will be pushed back. Competition for jobs will become fiercer as mid life re-trainees beginning new careers vie with young workers for a limited number of entry-level positions.