ABSTRACT
N.M. Emanuel Institute of Biochemical Physics, Russian Academy of Sciences
For long years Nikolai M. Emanuel was interested in the aging mechanisms. He was one of the first among scientists all over the world who suggested a hypothesis of free radical participation in this process. On this basis suggestions about geroprotective action of antioxidants capable of slowing down aging processes and prolonging human life were made. At present, the outstanding anticipation is proven on the molecular level. Aging of the whole organism cannot be understood apart from the processes providing death of a separate cell. Recently, molecular mechanisms of the cell death are of close attention, the understanding of which will allow for controlling lifetime of both separate cell and the whole organism. Among various types of the cell death of special importance is genetically programmed cell death or apoptosis [1,2]. The term "apoptosis" is a word of modern coinage, combined from two Greek words: apo - detachment and ptosis - falling down e.g. a process similar to the leaf fall in autumn. This romantic image was associated with the end of the living cell life.
