What is the Origin of Horvath's Clock?

The clock was developed by Dr. Steve Horvath in 2013, arising from large-scale studies in epigenetics and bioinformatics. His work identified 353 specific CpG sites whose methylation levels correlate robustly with age across various tissues and cell types. This discovery revolutionized the objective measurement of biological aging in clinical and research settings.

What is the Mechanism of Horvath's Clock?

The clock functions by analyzing DNA methylation, a key epigenetic modification where a methyl group is added to cytosine bases, primarily at CpG dinucleotides. These methylation patterns change predictably over time, acting as a molecular odometer of the aging process. While the exact regulatory mechanism linking methylation to aging is complex, it is known that hormonal factors and metabolic stress significantly influence the rate of epigenetic drift, directly impacting the clock's reading.

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Horvath’s Clock

Meaning

Horvath’s Clock is a highly precise molecular biomarker, an epigenetic clock, used to estimate an individual’s biological age based on the methylation patterns of specific sites across the human genome. This tool provides a quantitative measure of aging that often deviates from chronological age, serving as a powerful predictor of healthspan and all-cause mortality. A lower biological age relative to chronological age suggests a more youthful and resilient physiological state.