Effect of age on lipid peroxidation in a short-lived species of reptile, Calotes versicolor

The lipid peroxidation potential, measured as a thiobarbituric acid-reactive substance (TBA-RS) increased with advancing age in liver, brain and kidney of a short-lived species of reptile, Calotes versicolor. The same parameter did not show a significant change in an ageing heart. The pattern of age changes in lipid peroxidation potential in this species shows similarity with the findings in a majority of mammalian species. While suggesting a commonality in a basic mechanism of ageing between reptiles and mammals, the results also partially support the free radical theory of ageing.