Lipid Metabolism and Its Profound Influence on Biological Aging and Age-Related Pathologies

Lipid metabolism plays a central role in maintaining cellular homeostasis and energy balance, and its dysregulation has been increasingly implicated in the biology of aging and the development of age-related diseases. Lipids not only serve as structural components of membranes and energy sources but also act as signaling molecules that influence a wide array of physiological processes, including inflammation, oxidative stress response, and mitochondrial function. Recent research highlights how alterations in lipid profiles and lipid-processing enzymes contribute to cellular senescence, neurodegeneration, cardiovascular diseases, and metabolic syndromes commonly observed in aging populations. Understanding the mechanistic links between lipid metabolism and aging offers promising avenues for therapeutic intervention, including dietary modulation, pharmacological targeting of lipid metabolic pathways, and the use of lipidomics for early detection of age-related pathologies. This review synthesizes current insights into lipid metabolic pathways and their profound influence on the aging process and associated diseases, aiming to illuminate potential strategies for promoting healthy aging and longevity.