When lipids are oxidised by Reactive oxygen species, the resultant products can have a variety of affects on an organism. For example, Malonaldehyde (a lipid oxidation product) is capable of reacting with various molecules (proteins, nucleic acids) and can alter their structural confirmation. This alteration then leads to the immobilization of immune function. Furthermore researchers have found that many sufferers of age related diseases such as liver disease, diabetes and atherosclerosis, have high levels of lipid oxidation products present in cells (Lee, 2004). Frei (1995) also noted that the oxidation of LDLs can lead to the development of cardiovascular disease.
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Research has shown that oxidative stress can contribute to human ageing. As we age all of our cells will accumulate oxidation products from lipids sugars, proteins and nucleic acids (Jiang et al, 2006). These oxidation products are known as reactive oxygen species (ROS). These are a group of unstable, highly reactive molecules. They include oxygen ions, free radicals, and peroxides.
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Ageing can be defined as a metabolically active deterioration process which leads to a change in an organism over time. Some of the common characteristics seen with ageing are a decrease in reactions, impaired function, a decrease in reproductive capacity and an overall increase in the chance of mortality. The human life span is determined partially by the rate at which ageing occurs. Over the past decade research into ageing, has yielded results which can help unlock factors that underpin human ageing. Model organisms and premature ageing diseases such as progeria and Werner syndrome have also provided clues as to how the process of ageing occurs (Ruse et al, 2001). There are numerous theories that explain the process of ageing and much research has been done on the topic.
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