Spread the love

What is the Disposable Soma Theory of Aging?

The term “soma” refers to the body of an organism, excluding the germ cells responsible for reproduction. The disposable soma theory suggests that organisms prioritize the allocation of resources towards reproduction during their early life stages when the chances of survival and successful reproduction are higher. As a result, the body’s maintenance and repair mechanisms may be compromised, leading to the accumulation of damage and the onset of aging.

See also What is the connection between nutrient sensing and epigenetic modifications?

The theory proposes that natural selection favors the allocation of resources towards reproduction rather than maintenance and repair as it maximizes an organism’s chances of passing on its genes to the next generation. This trade-off between reproduction and longevity is thought to be responsible for the gradual decline in physiological function and increased vulnerability to age-related diseases observed in aging organisms.

In summary, the disposable soma theory of aging posits that organisms allocate limited resources towards reproduction at the expense of maintenance and repair, leading to the accumulation of damage and the aging process. This theory provides an evolutionary perspective on the trade-off between reproduction and longevity in organisms.

See also What is the relationship between epigenetics and gene expression?

Keywords: reproduction, organisms, disposable, between, resources, maintenance, longevity, towards, repair