The Hayflick limit

The Hayflick Limit refers to the maximum number of times a normal human cell can divide before it stops. Discovered by Dr. Leonard Hayflick in the 1960s, this limit is typically around 40 to 60 divisions. After reaching this point, cells enter a state called senescence, meaning they no longer divide. This process is linked to aging and the way our bodies replenish tissues. The limit is influenced by the shortening of telomeres, protective caps on the ends of chromosomes, which shorten with each cell division and play a key role in cellular aging.