The American Federation for Aging Research

	Are breakdowns in our genetic repair system responsible for aging?
	In each moment, DNA, the genetic material in our cells, is damaged by internal and external toxins. Luckily, our bodies have developed intricate repair systems that maintain the integrity of this code, of our cells and their function. Over time, however, our DNA repair systems falter. Some scientists believe that the accumulation over years of uncorrected DNA damage is a major cause of aging. Understanding the role that DNA damage and its repair, or lack of repair, play in aging and age-related disease is a first step. But some scientists are asking how we can take the logical next step-that is, treating DNA damage, or better still, preventing it. If our DNA repair systems are in fact the "guardians of the genome," can we strengthen those guardians and live healthier longer lives?
	What is DNA damage and repair? Click here. What causes DNA damage? Click here. Why is DNA repair important? Click here. How do DNA damage and repair relate to aging? Click here. How do DNA damage and repair relate to cancer? Click here.
	Check the latest research
	On the Process of DNA Damage and Repair. Click here. On DNA Damage and Repair and Cancer. Click here. On DNA Damage and Repair and Chronic Disease. Click here. On Improving the Capacity for DNA Repair. Click here.
	Research Spotlight
	DNA Damage: A Blessing in Disguise? Find out more.
	The Future
	On DNA Damage and Repair. Click here.
	Other Resources
	Weblinks. Click here. Books. Click here. References. Click here.

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