An Introduction to p53, Cancer and Aging
A long article from the Times Online looks one present focus of modern cancer and aging research: "The [p53] gene keeps cancer at bay, and scientists are racing to find a wonder drug to harness its power. If they get it right, we'll live longer, healthier, cancer-free lives. ... [aging and cancer are] two sides of the same coin, sharing a common mechanism in which the scales can be tipped either way. In other words, that wrinkled skin, thinning bones and failing organs may be the price we pay in the long run for holding cancer at bay. ... The clinical implications are clear. People are beginning to ask, 'Can I manipulate the system to get the best of both worlds?' ... Drugs to manipulate the p53 system to protect against cancer and slow down ageing at the same time are even further over the horizon, but scientists working to understand this relationship are making some sensational discoveries."
Link: http://www.timesonline.co.uk/printFriendly/0,,1-531-2290578-531,00.html