1.

There are several theories that explain about aging process such as:
A. The "Genetic Clock"
According to this theory, aging has been genetically programmed for each species.
Each species has a “clock” in their genetic cells that will be rotated according to
specific replications. This clock will calculate mitosis and when it stop spinning, the
replication will also stop. Based on this theory, when the clock stop, the species will
die even without environmental injuries or illness. The concept of "biological clock"
is supported by traits that are a way of explaining some species that look real.
B. Somatic Mutations (Theory of Error Catasrophe)
The other thing that needed to be paid attention to analyze the factors that can cause
aging is the environmental factors that cause somatic mutation. It is now common
knowledge that radiation and chemicals can shorten age, but avoiding contact with
chemicals that are carcinogenic or toxic, may prolong life.
C. Damage to the Body's Immune System
Recurrent mutations or changes in posttranslational proteins, can lead to reduced
ability of the body's immune system to recognize itself. If somatic mutations cause
abnormalities in the surface cell antigen, this may cause the body's immune system to
perceive the altered cells as alien cells and destroy them. This change is the basis for
the occurrence of autoimmune events.
D. Theory of Aging due to Metabolism
Reduced calorie intake will inhibit growth and aging. Animals most stunted growth
can reach the age of 2x longer than the control life. Furthermore it turns out that the
age extension is associated with delayed degeneration process. Extension of age due
to the decline in the number of calories, among others due to decreased one or several
metabolic processes. There is a decrease in hormone release that stimulates cell
proliferation, such as insulin and growth hormone.
E. Free Radical Damage
Free radicals can form in the wild and in the body if the phagocytes rupture and as a
byproduct in the respiratory chains within the mitochondria. When the respiration
occurs, oxygen is involved in converting fuel to ATP through respiratory enzymes in
the mitochondria, free radicals are produced as intermediates. The free radicals
formed are: Superoxide, hydroxyl radical, and also hydrogen peroxide. Free radicals
are destructive, because they are so reactive that they can react with DNA, proteins,
unsaturated fatty acids, as in cell membranes and with SH groups.
The body itself to have the ability to ward off free radicals in the form of enzymes
such as:
1. Superoxide dismutase (SOD)
2. An enzyme catalase of Fe in the form of haem
3. Enzyme glutathione peroxidase
In addition, RB can also be neutralized by using non enzymatic compounds such as
vitamin C, provitamin A, and vitamin E.

Reference:

Buku Ajar Boedhi-Darmojo GERIATRI (Ilmu Kesehatan Usia Lanjut). Edisi ke-4.
Fakultas Kedokteran UI Hal 8-13