Neuroendocrine (Aging Clock) Theory of Aging

Abstract

Developed by Vladimir Dilman, the neuroendocrine theory of aging states that “The effectiveness of the body's homeostatic adjustments declines with aging—leading to the failure of adaptive mechanisms, aging, and death.” This theory has also been referred to as the aging clock theory and the pacemaker theory. Consistent with this theory, the hypothalamic pituitary axis (HPA), the main regulatory system controlling homeostasis in humans, loses efficiency with aging resulting in increases in the number and severity of pathologic responses to changes in the body system, and a decline in many physiologic functions.