Aging is a multifactorial and complex process originating with alterations at the genetic, biochemical, and physiological levels that disrupt a broad range of cellular mechanisms in a complex fashion. Aging processes have been extensively studied in various model organisms and systems. Although results obtained from studies with any model system have to be viewed with caution when translated to human aging, much of the current understanding of conserved pathways involved in aging and lifespan control is derived from investigations with experimentally tractable models. Aging research has now reached a stage where it is possible to move from a reductionistic approach studying individual factors toward a more global analysis. With the recent development of technologies that allow for the generation and computational analyses of large sets of data, the ultimate goal is to unravel the various interacting molecular pathways governing aging and thus to elaborate a holistic understanding of this complex process.

We invite investigators to contribute original research articles as well as review articles describing current efforts directed at understanding the molecular mechanisms controlling aging. We are particularly interested in articles that explore aging mechanisms in cellular model system ranging from lower eukaryotic cells (e.g. fungi, nematodes, flies) to higher eukaryotic cells (e.g. human or mouse derived cells lines). Potential topics include, but are not limited to:

• Molecular factors and pathways contributing to aging
• Development and application of experimental and computational methods, including approaches of systems biology
• Cellular biomarkers and cellular determinants of longevity
• Oxidative damage and cellular surveillance systems
• Mitochondrial function and aging
• mRNA translation and aging
• Genetic instability and aging

Before submission authors should carefully read over the journal's Author Guidelines, which are located at http://www.hindawi.com/journals/oximed/guidelines/. Prospective authors should submit an electronic copy of their complete manuscript through the journal Manuscript Tracking System at http://mts.hindawi.com/ according to the following timetable: