Cellular aging, also known as cellular senescence, is the process by which cells in the body gradually lose their ability to divide and function properly as they age. This can lead to a decline in cellular function and overall health, as well as an increased risk of age-related diseases such as cancer, Alzheimer's disease, and cardiovascular disease. Researchers study cellular aging to better understand the mechanisms and pathways involved, and to develop potential interventions and treatments to slow down or reverse the aging process at the cellular level. Key areas of focus in cellular aging research include telomere shortening, oxidative stress, DNA damage, and mitochondrial dysfunction.