摘要: Abstract The evidence for the existence and behaviour of metabolic DNA in higher organisms is reviewed. conclusions are that (a) a given type differentiated cell consists copies those genes which active cell, (b) working DNA, (c) while active, molecules subject to damage periodically renewed, probably through self-replication. It suggested faulty accumulate cells, leading diminished function. If it assumed full complement correct necessary peak performance smaller number average performance, shape curves describing decline function with age predicted. death ensues when all faulty, curve can be calculated accurately follows life tables mice Drosophila.