Relationship between Cancer and Aging: Experimental Evidence and Mathematical Modeling Considerations

Konstantin G. Arbeev, Duke University
Anna V. Semenchenko, Max Planck Institute for Demographic Research
Vladimir N. Anisimov, N.N. Petrov Research Institute of Oncology
Svetlana V. Ukraintseva, Max Planck Institute for Demographic Research
Lyubov S. Arbeeva, Ulyanovsk State University

In this paper we investigate how various factors associated with external stresses and internal biological parameters influence processes of aging and tumor development. We present and discuss experimental findings confirming diversity of impact of different factors on cancer and longevity in rodents (LIO rats, CBA, SHR, SAMR-1, SAMP-1, HER-2/neu mice). Among factors influencing cancer and longevity are treatment with medicaments (melatonin, epithalon, DSIP), number of pregnancies and ovariectomy, body weight and body weight gain. These findings provide valuable insights on the relationship between the processes of carcinogenesis and aging in humans. We present the results of analysis of experimental data and suggest several mathematical models relating longevity, carcinogenesis, external stress parameters and internal biological mechanisms. The models exploit the concepts of hidden heterogeneity, two-stage process of carcinogenesis, repair of damages at cellular level, and components of individual aging process. Implications and possibilities for future research are discussed.