Abstract

Aging has been considered a progressive decrease of a living organism’s homeodynamics, which indicates a reduction of psycho-biological resilience. This narrative review provides an overview of the available literature related to the holistic approach of integrative medicine, Psychoneuroendocrineimmunology (PNEI) and hormesis in the aging process. On the basis of Pathophysiology of cell senescence and of chronic degenerative diseases, possible preventive/therapeutic pathways have been examined. Chronic low grade cellular inflammation and chronic stress have been shown as the general interlinked factors inducing aging, on the basis of complex biochemical, cell and multi-organ derangements. The main cell degenerative processes which have been related to aging are: altered mitochondria DNA/metabolism, excessive oxidative stress, glycation, alteration of autophagy and proteasome, and genome alterations. Literature about longevity-targeting interventions, beyond conventional medicine, describes a spectrum of possible measures to improve psycho-biological resilience, based on the PNEI paradigm, on hormesis and upon mitochondriatargeted interventions. Calorie restriction, exercising, fasting, nutraceuticals, sleep regulation, specific breathing, meditation and psychotherapy are discussed, among others.

Keywords: Psychoneuroendocrineimmunology, integrative medicine, hormesis, oxidative stress, glycation, psychotherapy.

Graphical Abstract