[The relationship between genetic and stochastic damage during the process of cell and bodily aging].

The paper deals with the conception formulated by the author concerning the dual nature of the ageing process determined by genetic and random factors which manifest their action at the molecular, cellular and organism level. The review is given of the author's own studies in the ratio of programmed and stochastic mechanisms of ageing in different organisms and cells in the tissue culture. A conclusion is made that genetic factors are the leading ones in determining the main mechanisms of ageing.