Work

Quantification of Epigenetic Aging in Public Health

Year: 2024

Type: review

Abstract: Estimators of biological age hold promise for use in preventive medicine, for early detection of chronic conditions, and for monitoring the effectiveness of interventions aimed at improving population health. Among the promising biomarkers in this field are DNA methylation-based biomarkers, commonly referred to as epigenetic clocks. This review provides a survey of these clocks, with an emphasis on second-generation clocks that predict human morbidity and mortality. It explores the validity of epigenetic clocks when considering factors such as race, sex differences, lifestyle, and environmental influences. Furthermore, the review addresses the current challenges and limitations in this research area.

Source: Annual Review of Public Health

DOI: 10.1146/annurev-publhealth-060222-015657

Authors: Cynthia D.J. Kusters, Steve Horvath

Institution: University of California, Los Angeles

Language: English

Topic: Epigenetics and DNA Methylation

Subfield: Molecular Biology

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Funders: National Institutes of Health, National Institute on Aging