The PRC2-AgeIndex is a biomarker that tracks age-related changes in DNA methylation at specific sites linked to the Polycomb Repressive Complex 2 (PRC2). It effectively measures methylation gains in somatic cells and may help assess the impact of anti-ageing treatments across different tissues.
July 2024 – Nature Communications
Key Takeaways
- DNA methylation changes drive cellular ageing: As we age, specific sites in our DNA undergo changes in methylation patterns, particularly gaining methylation. This process is linked to the progression of cellular ageing in somatic cells and serves as a key biological mechanism that reflects the overall decline in tissue function associated with ageing
- The PRC2-AgeIndex is a universal biomarker: The PRC2-AgeIndex, which monitors DNA methylation gains at sites related to the Polycomb Repressive Complex 2 (PRC2), acts as a reliable marker of biological ageing. This biomarker provides insights into how cells are ageing across different tissues, offering a consistent way to measure age at the cellular level
- Useful for evaluating anti-ageing treatments: By monitoring methylation changes, the PRC2-AgeIndex can assess the effectiveness of various anti-ageing interventions. It helps determine whether a treatment is having a rejuvenating effect on the cells, offering valuable information for developing personalised longevity strategies and therapeutic approaches
One of the strengths of the PRC2-AgeIndex is its ability to function across a range of tissues. This makes it a versatile tool for evaluating biological ageing comprehensively, providing insights that are not limited to one type of cell or tissue but are relevant for the entire organism’s ageing process.
Read the article at: Moqri, Mahdi, et al. “PRC2-AgeIndex as a Universal Biomarker of Ageing and Rejuvenation.” Nature Communications, vol. 15, 2024, doi:10.1038/s41467-024-50098-2.