Lifespan

DELebensspanne

Lifespan is the total length of time an organism lives, from birth to death, typically expressed in years for humans. In population terms it is summarised by life expectancy at birth or at a given age. Maximum lifespan refers to the longest documented age reached within a species; for humans this is around 122 years. Lifespan is influenced by genetics, environment, behaviour and access to medical care, and is a classic outcome in longevity research.

Last reviewed: January 15, 2026

Sources

Kenyon C, Chang J, Gensch E, Rudner A, Tabtiang R. (1993). A C. elegans mutant that lives twice as long as wild type. *Nature*doi:10.1038/366461a0

Related studies from the research library

A Tiny RNA Fragment May Be Key to How Fasting Extends LifespanEvidence: Preliminary
Why 17α-Estradiol Extends Lifespan in Male Mice but Not FemalesEvidence: Preliminary
Stress Response Trade-Off: Less ATF4 Activity May Extend Lifespan in FliesEvidence: Preliminary