Damage-driven versus programmed aging: competing paradigms revisited
This abstract contrasts two views of aging: progressive damage from imperfect repair versus an evolved genetic program. The authors, each backing one side, present both models side by side and outline testable hypotheses to judge which is more accurate. [1]
Automatic summary · not editorially reviewed
The key findings
The damage-driven model views aging as progressive loss of function caused by imperfect repair, modulated by damage rate, resistance, redundancy and regeneration. [1]
The program-driven framework argues that aging evolved as a genetic program. [1]
The authors outline testable hypotheses to determine which model is more accurate, without reporting a verdict. [1]
The source at a glance
- Study type / format
- Abstract of a conceptual review comparing two aging paradigms
- Population / context
- Not applicable; conceptual discussion of aging theories, no study population described.
- Summary based on
- Study abstract
- Original publication
- August 16, 2026
Two competing aging paradigms side by side
The abstract revisits a long-standing dichotomy: is aging the accumulation of damage or the execution of a program? Each author supports one paradigm and is critical of the other. The damage-driven model sees aging as progressive loss of function caused by imperfect repair, modulated by damage accumulation rate, damage resistance, biological redundancy and tissue regeneration. The program-driven framework argues that aging evolved as a genetic program.
Supporting source [1]
Testable hypotheses proposed, not yet resolved
By presenting both models side by side, the authors outline testable hypotheses to determine which one is more accurate. The abstract does not report new experiments, results or a verdict for either paradigm; it frames the debate and proposes how it could be tested.
Supporting source [1]
Why the answer matters for geroscience
The abstract states that resolving whether aging stems chiefly from damage accumulation or adaptive programming will shape the trajectory of geroscience and the design of therapeutic interventions aimed at extending healthy lifespan. This is a stated implication for future research direction, not a demonstrated outcome.
Supporting source [1]
How to interpret this
Abstract only; the full text was not reviewed. No experiments, data, sample or outcomes are reported, and neither paradigm is confirmed. The authors each advocate one side, so the framing is not neutral.
Based on the study abstract; the full paper, tables and supplementary data were not reviewed.
Source & supporting passages
Lidsky PV, Ogrodnik M. · europepmc.org · August 16, 2026