Epigenetic clocks and programmatic aging

Oct 16, 2024Ageing research reviews

Biological clocks based on gene changes and programmed aging

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Abstract

Methylation clocks may serve as indicators of biological age in humans and other mammals.

  • Methylation clocks are associated with biological processes of aging, although the underlying mechanisms remain unclear.
  • Certain genes related to development, such as Hox and polycomb genes, are found near clock CpG sites.
  • Recent theories suggest that methylation clocks reflect a developmental process of aging rather than merely a biological marker.
  • The evolution of these clocks may reveal how developmental mechanisms contribute to aging and late-life diseases.
  • A new discipline, developmental gerontology (devo-gero), integrates concepts from evolutionary biology, biogerontology, and developmental biology.
  • Hypotheses suggest that polycomb may balance early developmental accuracy with later adaptability during aging.

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