What concept describes the idea that DNA influences the aging process?

The concept that describes the idea that DNA influences the aging process is referred to as the genetic clock. This theory suggests that an organism's genetic makeup is programmed to age in specific ways, influencing longevity and the biological processes associated with aging. The genetic clock posits that certain genes can regulate the timing of developmental events and aging mechanisms, often tied to factors like cell repair, replication, and overall cellular health.

This concept complements other theories of aging by underscoring the role of hereditary factors in determining lifespan and susceptibility to age-related diseases. Understanding the genetic clock allows researchers to explore how genetic variations can affect individuals differently when it comes to aging, longevity, and the onset of age-related conditions.

On the other hand, cellular aging pertains to the changes that cells undergo as they divide and age, while biological clock refers to the physiological mechanisms that guide the timing of biological functions, which may not directly implicate genetics. Chronological aging simply indicates the amount of time that has passed since birth, without considering the underlying biological processes influenced by DNA.