Evidence supporting the genetic programming theories of aging comes from research showing that when human cells are permitted to divide in the laboratory, they can do so successfully only around ____ times.

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This limit is known as the Hayflick limit, named after cell biologist Leonard Hayflick who discovered it in 1961. The limit is thought to be due to the shortening of telomeres, the protective caps on the ends of chromosomes, which occurs with each cell division. Once the telomeres become too short, the cell can no longer divide and may enter a state of senescence or cell death. This supports the genetic programming theories of aging, which suggest that the eventual decline and death of cells and organisms is predetermined by genetic factors.

Evidence Supporting the Genetic Programming Theories of Aging Comes from Research