Alterations of gene expression during in vitro ageing: The mammalian fibroblast model

Ageing is a complex biological phenomenon of immense importance. As all ageing changes have a cellular basis, the phenomenon is best studied at cellular level under defined and controlled environmental conditions. Molecular biology techniques have been applied to cultured mammalian fibroblasts to evaluate the leading hypotheses. The study of the difference in signalling pathways between young and senescent cells has given evidence of the involvement of several known genes, including oncogenes, oncosuppressor genes, cell cycle control genes and their inhibitors, during the in vitro ageing process. Furthermore, applications of different cloning approaches have resulted in the identification of several additional genes that are associated with cellular ageing such as fibronectin, osteonectin, al-procollagen, Apo J, SM22, prohibitin, SAG, vimentin, and mot-1 genes. The results of these in vitro studies may advance our understanding of in vivo ageing and focus future research efforts. The ultimate target is to provide the scientific foundation to enhance the quality of life for people suffering from deteriorating ageing process.