Why organisms age and why they age at widely varying rates are fundamental biological questions. Dr. Fischer’s work focuses on the comparative biology of aging using differences between sexes, between sexual and asexual forms and among different strains of the same species; between different species and across widely divergent taxa. Identifying the underlying physiological, cellular, and molecular mechanisms that account for such differences will provide insights into both proximate and ultimate causes of aging. Her primarily interest is in finding ways to improve health during aging, so that people live healthier not just longer lives.
Historically, the focus of aging research has been lifespan, rather than the quality of life. Science, medicine, and public health have increased human lifespan in industrialized countries during the past century; however, this growing population of elders has not been able to maintain their health and vitality during their later years. For many, the net result has been a longer life to be endured in a state of increased dependency and debility. For our elders and for society as a whole, this is a pressing problem that must be addressed using all the tools at our disposal.
Biology of Aging, Sex Differences, Evolution, Ecology, Animal Behavior and Conservation.
