DNA methylation-based biomarkers are at the forefront of aging research, offering a molecular perspective on biological age that surpasses traditional chronological measures. These biomarkers leverage DNA methylation data to predict age and provide insights into the biological processes underlying aging.
What Is DNA Methylation? #
DNA methylation is an epigenetic modification where a methyl group is added to cytosine in CpG sites of DNA. As we age, specific methylation patterns change in predictable ways — forming the basis of epigenetic clocks.
Key Epigenetic Clocks Used by Dripdok #
- Horvath Clock: First-generation multi-tissue clock, strong correlation with chronological age
- Hannum Clock: Blood-based clock with good metabolic disease correlation
- PhenoAge: Second-generation clock correlating with phenotypic age and mortality risk
- GrimAge: Strongest predictor of lifespan and age-related disease
- Yale’s DunedinPACE: Measures pace of aging (years per calendar year) — used by Dripdok
Clinical Applications at Dripdok #
- Baseline biological age assessment before treatment
- Monitoring treatment effectiveness over 6–12 month protocols
- Personalized intervention planning based on organ-specific aging trajectories
- Tracking pace of aging changes (DunedinPACE) to confirm protocol effectiveness
For further details on the research and development of these biomarkers, please refer to the comprehensive review by Steve Horvath and Kenneth Raj, “DNA methylation-based biomarkers and the epigenetic clock theory of ageing,” published in Nature Reviews Genetics.
