Epigenetic Predictor of Age
Author Information
Author(s): Bocklandt Sven, Lin Wen, Sehl Mary E., Sánchez Francisco J., Sinsheimer Janet S., Horvath Steve, Vilain Eric
Primary Institution: University of California Los Angeles
Hypothesis
Can DNA methylation patterns in saliva predict biological age?
Conclusion
The study identified 88 DNA methylation sites that correlate with age, allowing for the prediction of an individual's age with an average accuracy of 5.2 years.
Supporting Evidence
- 88 DNA methylation sites were identified that correlate with age.
- The model explained 73% of the variance in age.
- Validation showed strong correlation of methylation with age in additional samples.
- The average prediction error for age was 5.2 years.
- Findings suggest potential applications in forensic science and healthcare.
Takeaway
Scientists found that changes in DNA can help guess how old someone is, just by looking at their saliva.
Methodology
The study used microarray analysis to quantify DNA methylation in saliva samples from identical twins and validated findings in additional samples.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the recruitment of twins differing in sexual orientation.
Limitations
The study primarily focused on male identical twins, which may limit the generalizability of the findings.
Participant Demographics
34 male identical twin pairs aged 21 to 55, and additional samples from 31 males and 29 females aged 18 to 70.
Statistical Information
P-Value
1.4×10−7
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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