Ageing and genetics

Ageing and genetics

Ageing refers to the deterioration of the body’s physical structure and function. Cells face constant exposure to a harmful environment throughout life. Genetic and epigenetic interactions result in the accumulation of molecular abnormalities affecting adult stem cell function, influenced by hereditary, environmental, and unpredictable factors. Ageing is influenced by both genetic and environmental factors, with genetics playing a significant role in the process. Ageing affects physiological function, characterized by damage accumulation in molecules, cells, and tissues over time. This reduces an individual’s ability to maintain homeostasis during stress and increases the risk of various diseases.

One of the most noticeable signs of ageing is changes in the skin. We have long recognized skin as a protective barrier against external agents, whether physical, chemical, or microbiological. It also plays a vital role in regulating temperature, electrolytes, and fluids. Skin serves as a sensory organ and a biofactory responsible for producing, processing, and metabolizing various structural elements and hormones. As the skin ages, it experiences a decline in structural and morphological properties, leading to a reduction in all of its functions. Factors such as hydration, elasticity, and antioxidant properties contribute to the skin’s ageing process, which is influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. As we age, the effects of ageing become increasingly evident, with skin ageing garnering particular interest due to its visibility and role as a window into our age.

How do genetics influence our skin ageing process?

Certain skin changes naturally occur with time, but genetics also play a role in intrinsic ageing. Our genetic makeup influences various factors, including the likelihood of discolorations, stretch marks, varicose veins, and skin sagging, among others. When skin cells divide, telomeres—protective projections at the ends of chromosomes that affect cell ageing—become shorter and weaker. Skin ageing is associated with this DNA wear and tear. Shorter telomeres or their accelerated shortening over time make signs of ageing on the skin more visible. Genetics determine the length of your telomeres and the rate at which they shorten.

Have you ever met someone whose complexion appears to be much younger than their actual age? or that one individual who doesn’t know how much a facial moisturizer costs but has skin as supple and radiant as a child? When it comes to skin and ageing, just as some people are more prone to producing keloids, other people may have genetic modulations that predispose them to faster skin ageing or even stretch marks. This is mostly due to genetic modulations, which can differ substantially from person to person. Other factors that influence the skin ageing process Extrinsic factors such as sun exposure, smoking, lifestyle, nutrition, and stress among others may affect the skin ageing process in various ways such as accelerating the rate of ageing or causing premature skin ageing. Extrinsic skin ageing may manifest itself in the form of coarse wrinkles, sun damage, and pigment abnormalities. The rate of skin ageing varies dramatically between people. And depends on the individuals’ exposure pattern to various environmental elements as well as their genetic makeup. Some people may be more vulnerable to the effects of environmental exposure on their skin than others