Scientists have developed a new blood test called EPI-Clone that estimates biological age by analyzing DNA methylation patterns in blood cells. This test could potentially be used in clinical practice to assess an individual's rate of aging and risk for age-related diseases.
The study, conducted in Barcelona, revealed that blood cell diversity decreases with age, while immune cells causing inflammation increase, contributing to a phenomenon known as inflammaging. Reducing these inflammatory cells could potentially delay the onset of age-related diseases.
The EPI-Clone test analyzes methylation patterns in blood, indicating whether blood cells maintain the diversity characteristic of younger individuals. Researchers hope this test will enable preventative measures against aging and provide insights into personalized interventions to promote healthy aging.