Degeneration refers to the process of decline or deterioration in quality, function, or structure of cells, tissues, or organs. This can occur due to various factors, including aging, disease, or environmental influences. In biological contexts, degeneration often leads to a loss of normal function and can affect overall health. In medicine, degeneration is commonly associated with conditions like osteoarthritis, where joint cartilage breaks down, or muscular dystrophy, which involves the progressive weakening of muscles. Understanding degeneration is crucial for developing treatments and interventions to slow down or reverse its effects on the body.