The central dogma of aging

Aging is driven by interconnected molecular and cellular changes that lead to functional decline and increased disease susceptibility. Here, we propose a novel "Central Dogma of Aging" hypothesis that extends the classical central dogma of molecular biology (DNA > RNA > protein) to encompass DNA, RNA, protein, and metabolite. The four layers are interconnected and mutually regulated by a 4C (Coding, Catalysis, Constitution and Catabolism) rule, referred to as the Central Dogma; each is further modulated by anabolism (synthesis), modification (post-synthesis alterations), and catabolism (degradation) process. Aging arises from imbalances in anabolism, modification, and catabolism across DNA, RNA, proteins, and metabolites, and is dynamically challenged by the exposome—cumulative environmental stimuli. The Central Dogma of Aging offers a comprehensive model for aging mechanisms, with implications for targeted therapies to promote healthiness and longevity.