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July 2016 Vol. 53 No. 11

Is aging a “disease” that can be “cured” by preventing the shortening of the end segments of chromosomes—telomeres?  According to Fossel (Cells, Aging, and Human Disease, 2004), a noted researcher on aging, this is the case.  The author begins by presenting a time line of the study and development of theories about the process of aging from their initiation to the present time.  This is followed by eight chapters that delve into those initial theories and the telomerase theory, why aging happens, and direct and indirect aging, concluding with a consideration of slowing and reversing the aging process.  While the level of presentation is fairly general, footnotes help guide the nonscientist, as does a six-page glossary of scientific terms.  A useful ten-page index assists with location of specific topics.  There are questions about aging that the telomerase theory answers, but the careful reader will find that many questions remain.  The Telomerase Revolution is a worthwhile addition to the collection of individuals or institutions with an interest in the biology of aging.

--L. A. Meserve, Bowling Green State University

Summing Up: Recommended. Upper-division undergraduates through professionals/practitioners; general audiences.