TNRTB Archive – Retained for reference information
Recent advances in the biochemistry of aging make the long life spans recorded in Genesis 5 and 11 scientifically plausible. In this study, researchers demonstrate that even low levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) cause extensive DNA damage. ROS are produced by the cell during the normal course of metabolism. Fortunately, the cell has enzymes like catalase and superoxide dismutase that protect the cell’s molecules from the harmful effects of ROS. Recent work indicates that boosting the levels of these enzymes dramatically increases life spans. This new study confirms the important role that ROS play in aging. If scientists can significantly manipulate life spans by genetic intervention, it would not be difficult for a Creator to adjust human biochemistry to permit long life spans and then shorten them after the Flood. In light of this study, the long human life spans described in Genesis are scientifically reasonable.
Sunny Park et al., “Substantial DNA Damage from Submicromolar Intracellular Hydrogen Peroxide Detected in Hpx- Mutants of Escherichia coli,” Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, USA 102 (2005): 9317-22.
A common assumption is that Genesis 5 and 11 contain complete, father-son genealogies without gaps and, therefore, one can rely on these genealogies to...
