Study
Genome instability and aging
PRIMARY
2013
Summary Does damage to our DNA help cause aging? Show / hide ↓
The researchers reviewed earlier studies on genome instability, meaning damage and changes in DNA. They considered evidence from human studies, animal experiments, and cells. Across these studies, DNA damage tended to build up with age and was linked to problems in cells and tissues. The review also noted that this is only one possible cause of aging, and the evidence does not prove that preventing all DNA damage would extend human life.
What this means for you: This supports healthy habits that already protect overall health, such as avoiding tobacco and excess sunlight. It does not show that a supplement or product marketed to “repair DNA” will slow aging.
moderate evidenceDesignPRIMARY
TierTier 2, Product RCT (not peer-reviewed)
Year2013
JournalAnnual Review of Physiology (PubMed)
Added to NO1GEVITYJun 4, 2026
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1 encyclopedia entries reference this study.