DNA damage accumulates over time due to environmental factors such as UV radiation and oxidative stress, as well as normal metabolic processes. The cell's ability to repair DNA diminishes with age, leading to the accumulation of mutations and genomic instability. This can result in cellular dysfunction and contribute to the aging process. Histological analysis often involves detecting markers of DNA damage, such as γ-H2AX foci, to study the impact of DNA damage on cellular aging.