What is the Origin of Epigenetic Clocks Manipulation?

The concept originates from the field of epigenetics and the groundbreaking work defining highly accurate "clocks," such as the Horvath and Hannum clocks, which quantify biological age by analyzing specific cytosine methylation sites. The idea of "manipulation" then emerged as researchers began testing interventions that could potentially modify these methylation patterns.

What is the Mechanism of Epigenetic Clocks Manipulation?

The primary mechanism involves modulating the activity of DNA methyltransferases and demethylases, the enzymes responsible for adding or removing methyl groups from DNA. Key interventions, including specific dietary components, exercise, and pharmacological agents, can influence the availability of methyl donors and cofactors, thereby shifting the overall epigenetic landscape toward a more youthful, less methylated profile in critical genomic regions.

Epigenetic Clocks Manipulation ∞ Area

Epigenetic Clocks Manipulation

Meaning

This refers to the clinical and lifestyle strategies employed to influence the rate measured by epigenetic clocks, which are biological assays that estimate an individual’s biological age based on DNA methylation patterns. Manipulation involves implementing interventions aimed at reversing or slowing the accumulation of age-associated methylation changes across the genome. The objective is to bring an individual’s biological age closer to or below their chronological age, suggesting a younger, more resilient physiological state.