ied by the Condrocytes, and replace the cartilage matrix with a Calcium rich, rock hard, matrix, we know as bone (188). In the foregoing example there are instances of cells being told to die, this is programmed death, and known as apoptosis. During life, our cells carry out metabolic functions, producing digestive enzymes and waste products, which are harmful to surrounding cells, if it spewed into the fluids among the cells. These enzymes and toxins must be packaged in a way that is not harmful to the interstitial environment, and in a manner in which appropriate cells in the region can readily absorb them. This must be done without invoking an inflammatory response (Browder). Aging, also known as Senescence, is a natural process, beginning at reproductive fitness and culminating in death, Observed in most living organisms, senescence is characterized by a gradual reduction in reserve capacity of organ systems, (Heydari). Supporting research by U. of Floridas Aging Biochemistry Laboratory indicates an increased apoptotic rate of cardiomyocytes, T-lymphocytes, and neurons, as age advances (Leeuwenburgh, par. 3.1). These factors manifest the classic signs of aging as well as many age-associated diseases, such as reduced cardiac function, susceptibility to illness and neurological disease (4.0). Apoptotic cell death is only one factor of the aging mechanism. Normally, during development, as cells are deleted new cells are made to occupy the void. As an organism ages the number of dividing cells declines, resulting in a decreased capacity to heal. Every high school student knows that as cells divide, DNA is unzipped and re-zipped during the copying process. This process, by which we grow and heal, is believed to be responsible for our senescence. Without some form of error correction, manipulation of DNA will result in damage to the codes contained in it. Error correction is provided by The stuff at the end of each chromoso...
