In certain embodiments this invention pertains to the discovery that inhibition of the expression and/or activity of eukaryotic initiation factor 4A (eIF4A) inhibits the aging process. Accordingly, in certain embodiments, methods are provided for inhibiting/slowing aging. The methods typically involve administering to a mammal an agent that inhibits the expression and/or activity of eukaryotic initiation factor 4A (eIF4A) in an amount sufficient to inhibit expression or activity of EIF4A, where the agent is not resveratrol.
