Mortality studies in the clarification of gene-environment interactions

In this paper we review some theories about the process of senescence and death, in particular the theory of accumulation of mutations and the theory of antagonistic pleiotropism. These theories are reviewed in the light of existing scientific evidence, with particular reference to that which points to the possible role of interactions between genes and environment. We conclude that mortality studies, particularly on migrant populations may be an important tool for clarifying this major issue.