DNA Methylation Age and Cognitive Change in Midlife
Author Information
Author(s): Sophie A. Bell, Christopher R. Beam, Ebrahim Zandi, Alyssa Kam, Emily Andrews, Jonathan Becker, Deborah Finkel, Deborah W. Davis, Eric Turkheimer
Hypothesis
Does accelerated DNA methylation age predict cognitive change in midlife, and is this relationship moderated by childhood socioeconomic status?
Conclusion
Accelerated DNA methylation age predicts a decline in IQ from childhood to midlife, especially for those from low socioeconomic backgrounds.
Supporting Evidence
- DNA methylation age is a better predictor of age-related health issues than chronological age.
- The study used five algorithms to estimate DNA methylation age.
- A two-factor structure was identified in the analysis of DNA methylation measures.
- The study accounted for genetic and environmental factors shared by twins.
Takeaway
This study found that how fast your biological age is changing can affect your thinking skills as you grow up, especially if you didn't have a lot of money when you were a kid.
Methodology
The study analyzed data from middle-aged twins and used regression models to assess the relationship between DNA methylation age and cognitive change.
Participant Demographics
Middle-aged twins with a mean age of 51.9 years.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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