“Epigenetic Clocks: A Review”, 2020-06-16 (; backlinks; similar):
It has recently been found possible to estimate age, mortality risk, or general health by looking merely at the epigenome. The models used to do so are referred to as epigenetic (or methylation) clocks.
Epigenetic clocks are increasingly becoming a popular choice for scientists in the field of aging research to measure the putative efficacy of anti-aging interventions. They may make it possible to get results before full Kaplan-Meier curves are available, and they could serve, at least seemingly, as a replacement for a host of other biomarkers. I recommend reading the introductory sections of “The Longevity FAQ” as well as those about epigenetics before reading this post as it gives some more context.
…Conclusion
Even with a small number of the CpGs of the epigenome measured, it has been possible to construct clocks that accurately track age and health. We still don’t know exactly why the clocks work, just that they do. There is some interesting evidence pointing out to at least part of the pattern seem in the aged epigenome being causal, not just a reflection of the overall condition of the tissue or organism, so we may soon see the epigenome becoming a target for novel drugs. If you want to continue reading about this, Bell et. al 2019’s review (from where I extract the table below) and 2020 are the best starting points.
View External Link: