From the Guidelines
Blood tests that can indicate accelerated aging include DNA methylation tests, inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukin-6 (IL-6), and telomere length testing, which measures the protective caps on chromosomes that shorten with age. These tests are most useful when interpreted together rather than individually, as aging is a complex process affecting multiple biological systems. According to a study published in JAMA Oncology 1, DNA methylation changes, commonly referred to as “epigenetic clocks,” have been studied in cancer patients and have been proposed as global markers of life course biological aging. Another study published in Genome Biology 1 discusses the scientific challenges that the discovery of “DNA methylation clocks” has brought into focus and provides recommendations for future experiments.
Some key points to consider when interpreting these tests include:
- DNA methylation tests can determine biological age versus chronological age by measuring chemical changes to DNA
- Inflammatory markers like CRP and IL-6 tend to increase with accelerated aging
- Telomere length testing can measure the protective caps on chromosomes that shorten with age
- Complete blood count (CBC) can reveal aging-related changes in blood cell populations
- Oxidative stress markers like 8-OHdG indicate cellular damage from free radicals
Regular monitoring of these markers can help identify premature aging and guide interventions to slow the aging process through lifestyle modifications or medical treatments, as suggested by a study published in Aging Cell 1. Additionally, a study published in Genome Biology 1 highlights the importance of considering the intercorrelation between different measures of biological aging, as they may be interconnected.
It is essential to note that while these tests can provide valuable information, they should be used in conjunction with other clinical assessments and medical history to get a comprehensive understanding of an individual's health status, as recommended by a study published in Aging Cell 1. By considering multiple factors and using a combination of these tests, healthcare professionals can develop a more accurate understanding of an individual's biological age and provide personalized recommendations for promoting healthy aging.
From the Research
Blood Tests Indicating Accelerated Aging
The following blood tests have been identified as indicators of accelerated aging:
- C-reactive protein (CRP) 2, 3, 4, 5
- Cystatin C (CYSC) 3, 4
- D-dimer (DD) 3
- Intima-media thickness (IMT) 3
- Mitral annulus peak E anterior wall (MVEA) 3
- Digital symbol test (DST) 3
- IL-6 4
- TNFα-receptor I or II 4
- GDF15 4
- Insulin 4
- IGF1 4
- NT-proBNP 4
- Hemoglobin A1c 4
- Telomere length 3, 5
Association with Aging
These blood tests have been associated with various aspects of aging, including:
- Biological age 2, 3, 4
- Chronological age 3, 6
- Morbidity and mortality 2, 4
- Cognitive impairment and dementia 6
- Telomere shortening 5
Measurement of Biological Age
Biological age can be measured using a combination of these blood tests, including: