Getting older, an inevitable facet of life, has captivated humanity for centuries . Aging gracefully versus "inflammaging" conveys dissimilar implications. As science progresses, our understanding of the aging process deepens, unveiling a realm of biomarkers that act as clues to the intricate dance between time and our biology. In this blog, we embark on a journey to decode the biomarkers associated with inflammaging offering insights into the mechanisms that shape the passage of time within our bodies.
Telomere Length: Unraveling Chromosomal Chronology
Telomeres, the protective caps at the ends of our chromosomes, preventing unwinding and aid in repair, replication and division, playing a crucial role in cellular aging. As cells divide, telomeres shorten, acting as a molecular clock. Shortened telomeres are associated with aging and age-related diseases, making telomere length a key biomarker in the study of aging. Furthermore, researchers discovered that a specialized DNA polymerase (originally called a tandem-DNA-polymerase) could extend telomeres in immortal tissues like stem cells (Mangiameli et al., 2017).
Epigenetic Clocks: Reading the Marks of Time
Epigenetic changes, modifications to DNA that don't alter the underlying genetic code, can serve as powerful indicators of aging. Epigenetic clocks, based on specific DNA methylation patterns, offer a remarkably accurate estimate of a person's chronological age and can even highlight accelerated or delayed aging.
Inflammatory Markers: The Silent Saboteurs
Chronic inflammation is a hallmark of aging and is linked to various age-related diseases. Biomarkers such as C-reactive protein (CRP), APoE-4 and interleukin-6 (IL-6) are indicative of systemic inflammation. Monitoring these markers provides insights into the inflammatory status of the body and its potential impact on the aging process.
Mitochondrial Function: Powerhouses Under Scrutiny
Mitochondria, the cellular powerhouses, play a crucial role in energy production. Changes in mitochondrial function and the accumulation of mitochondrial DNA mutations are associated with aging. Biomarkers related to mitochondrial health offer a window into the cellular vitality that diminishes with age.
Hormonal Changes: Riding the Waves of Aging
Hormones orchestrate numerous physiological processes, and their levels often shift with age. Biomarkers such as DHEA, testosterone, and estrogen can provide insights into hormonal changes associated with aging. Understanding these shifts aids in comprehending age-related conditions and potential interventions.
Glycemic Control: Sugar-Coated Clues to Aging
Dysregulation of blood sugar levels is a common feature of aging. Biomarkers like HbA1c, which reflects average blood sugar levels over time, serve as indicators of glycemic control. Monitoring these markers is crucial in understanding the impact of metabolism on the aging process.
Conclusion:
Biomarkers for aging offer a glimpse into the intricate tapestry of our biological clocks. As science advances, these markers become not just indicators of the passage of time but windows into the potential interventions and lifestyle changes that can influence how we age. By decoding these biomarkers, we inch closer to unraveling the mysteries of aging and, perhaps, finding the keys to a healthier and more resilient journey through the years.
At the Med spa at Clinical Edge we aim to increase healthy biomarkers such as sirtuins, and activating AMPK and decrease those contributing to inflammation and disease such as MTOR. Make an appointment for a functional medicine visit today and take back control your aging for a True Diagnostics test today! View a report sample here - How old are you?
References
Mangiameli, S. M., Veit, B. T., Merrikh, H., & Wiggins, P. A. (2017). The Replisomes Remain Spatially Proximal throughout the Cell Cycle in Bacteria. PLoS Genetics, 13(1), e1006582. https://10.1371/journal.pgen.1006582
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