Biomarkers and Inflammatory Network in Aging: Targets for Therapies

Abstract

Humans are characterized by a large heterogeneity in lifespans. The aging rate, measured as a decline of functional capacity and stress resistance, is different in every individual. Several attempts have been made to define the so-called biological age, but without achieving real success. Biomarkers of aging, which are represented by biological indicators selected using appropriate criteria, should help to characterize the biological age. Since age is a major risk factor in many degenerative diseases, such biomarkers could subsequently be used to identify individuals at a high risk of developing age-associated diseases or disabilities. In this chapter, some inflammatory biomarkers will be discussed to provide a better understanding of the concept of biological aging, which will assist in the development of a working hypothesis on the potential targets of new therapeutic strategies and improve, as a consequence, the quality of life of the elderly population. © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rig...