Final Answer:
The condition or process of deterioration with age, resulting in the loss of a cell's power of division and growth, is known as _senescence._
Step-by-step explanation:
Senescence is a biological phenomenon characterized by the gradual deterioration of cells and organisms as they age. This process involves a decline in the cell's ability to divide and grow, leading to functional and structural changes. Senescence can affect various aspects of cellular function, including DNA repair mechanisms, metabolic processes, and the overall vitality of the cell. The term encompasses the aging process at both the cellular and organismal levels, reflecting the complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and molecular factors that contribute to the aging phenomenon.
Loss of a cell's power of division and growth is a hallmark of senescence and is often associated with the shortening of telomeres, which are protective structures at the ends of chromosomes. As cells undergo repeated divisions, telomeres progressively shorten, eventually triggering cellular senescence. This natural aging process plays a crucial role in the regulation of cell populations, preventing the uncontrolled proliferation of damaged or dysfunctional cells. Understanding senescence is vital in the fields of biology and medicine, as it contributes to our knowledge of aging-related diseases and the development of potential interventions to promote healthy aging.
In summary, senescence encapsulates the condition or process of deterioration with age, specifically emphasizing the loss of a cell's power of division and growth. This concept is fundamental to our understanding of aging and provides insights into the intricate mechanisms that govern cellular and organismal lifespan.