DNA METHYLATION IS AN EPIGENETIC BIOMARKER OF AGING

Abstract Introduction. Recently, epigenetic markers of aging have become a necessity and their identification is a major goal of gerontology. They can be thought of as measures of ageing at the individual level that capture inter-individual differences in the timing of onset, functional decline and death over the life course. The aim of the study is to show the role of DNA methylation in the aging process of the body. Materials and methods. A study algorithm has been developed to assess the biological (true) status of a patient. The method is based on the determination of DNA methylation levels. Results and discussion. A detailed assessment of DNA methylation levels can reveal unique insights into the aging process itself, as well as act as a biomarker of biological age and inform age-related risk of common diseases. Identifying and understanding the epigenetic changes that occur during aging will help in deciphering certain aspects of physiology and pathology, and opens up prospects for developing new therapeutic approaches for selective methylome editing. Conclusions. Aging of the human body is accompanied by an increase in DNA methylation. The study of the methylation profile can serve as an indicator of biological age and a prognostic indicator of the survival time of a particular individual.