This course introduces students to the science of biogerontology. The course is organized along two primary goals: to explore the biology of human aging for the non-medical person and to look at the science behind anti-aging interventions that may potentially modify the human body's interaction with the aging process. Beginning with the key concept of chronologic age versus physiologic age, participants examine mechanistic models of the aging process and the changes that take place in anatomy and physiology. Detailed attention is given to 10 "biomarkers" of the aging process, such as skeletal muscle mass, basal metabolic rate, body fat percentage, aerobic capacity, insulin sensitivity, and bone density. These biomarkers provide a framework for understanding and monitoring what happens to us as we age. The remaining class sessions explore the science behind multiple purported anti-aging interventions, including cardiovascular exercise, strength exercise, caloric restriction (CR), sirtuin gene activating compounds (e.g. resveratrol), antioxidants, hormone supplementation, stem cells, and genetic engineering.
There are two inexpensive texts for this course, extensive handouts, and one free publication that will be provided by the instructor. Texts to purchase: Living Better, Living Longer, a Harvard Medical School special health report by Robert Schreiber, medical editor, Harvard Health Publications, 2017, and Mayo Clinic on Healthy Aging by Edward Creagan, medical editor, The Mayo Clinic, 2013, or through MBSdirect.net.
916.200.01 Homewood campus
Thursday, Sept. 26 to Dec. 5, 6:45 to 8:45 p.m. (no class Nov. 28)
Cost: $350
Full-time faculty/staff and spouse/same-sex domestic partners are eligible for tuition remission. You will be unable to register online and receive the discount. Please direct all questions to 410-516-8516.
