Previous studies have found that behavioral and lifestyle factors, such as stress, poor sleep, nutrition, smoking and alcohol consumption, can accelerate aging, the effects of which tend to impress on the genome as “genetic markers.”
These marks appear in the form of chemical modifications to the DNA, such as the addition of methyl molecules. Such changes make it possible to measure the progress of the body’s aging at the molecular level.
Previous efforts to test the extent of molecular signs of aging have relied on examining blood cells, which can be cumbersome to collect.
The new study, published in the journal Frontiers in Aging, describes a new method to determine the extent of biological aging from genetic markers in cells collected from cheek swabs.
The researchers say the new test, called CheekAge, can demonstrate possible links between specific genes in the body and processes that lead to human death.
The test was developed by linking a portion of methyl group modifications in approximately 200,000 locations in the human genome to an overall health and lifestyle score.
It was then used to predict death from any cause in more than 1,500 women and men born between 1921 and 1936.
The results revealed that CheekAge is “significantly associated with death in a longitudinal dataset” (data that tracks the same type of information about the same topics at multiple points in time). It also indicates that there are common signals of death across tissues in the body.
“This means that a simple, non-invasive cheek swab could be a valuable alternative for studying and tracking the biology of aging,” says study author Maxim Shukharev.
Within the genome, scientists looked at the DNA methylation sites most associated with death in more detail. They found that genes located around or near some of these sites are likely candidates for influencing a person’s lifespan or risk of developing age-related diseases.
Potential candidate genes include PDZRN4, a gene thought to play a potential role in suppressing tumor growth, and ALPK2, a gene implicated in cancer and heart health.
They also found that genes previously implicated in the development of cancer, osteoporosis, inflammation and metabolic syndrome appeared to influence life expectancy.
Source: Independent
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The Genetic Markers of Aging: A Deeper Look into the Molecular Effects of Lifestyle Choices
As I delved into the latest research on aging, I was struck by the profound impact that our lifestyle choices have on the genetic markers of aging. It’s no secret that factors like stress, poor sleep, nutrition, smoking, and alcohol consumption can accelerate the aging process. However, recent studies have shed light on the mechanisms behind these effects, revealing that they can be measured at the molecular level through changes in our DNA.
The Role of Epigenetic Drift
Research has shown that DNA methylation, a process in which methyl molecules are added to our DNA, plays a crucial role in the aging process [[3]]. This process, known as epigenetic drift, can be influenced by our lifestyle choices, leading to changes in the genetic markers of aging. As we age, DNA methylation decreases, resulting in changes to our gene expression and potentially leading to age-related diseases.
Biomarkers of Aging
So, what are the biomarkers of aging that researchers are looking for? Previous studies have identified a range of biomarkers, including those related to cardiovascular function, glucose metabolism, inflammation, and nutritional status [[2]]. These biomarkers can be measured in blood samples, providing valuable insights into the aging process. Additionally, researchers have also identified biomarkers related to body composition, such as BMI and fat and muscle indices, which can be used to track the progress of aging [[1]].
Implications for Aging Research
The discovery of genetic markers of aging has significant implications for our understanding of the aging process. By identifying the molecular mechanisms behind aging, researchers can develop targeted interventions to slow or even reverse the aging process. This could lead to the development of new treatments for age-related diseases, such as cancer, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s disease.
Conclusion
the genetic markers of aging are a complex and multifaceted phenomenon, influenced by a range of lifestyle factors. By understanding the molecular mechanisms behind aging, researchers can develop new treatments and interventions to promote healthy aging. As we continue to explore the genetic markers of aging, we may uncover new insights into the aging process and discover new ways to promote a longer, healthier life.
References:
[[1]] Hartmann, A. (2021). Ranking Biomarkers of Aging by Citation Profiling and …
[[2]] Wagner, K. H. (2016). Biomarkers of Aging: From Function to Molecular Biology
[[3]] Guo, J. (2022). Aging and aging-related diseases: from molecular …
