Epigenetics: Causing and Solving the Ageing Puzzle.

 Unlocking the Code for Cell Identity and Longevity

Our DNA encodes approximately 20,000 proteins, which are the building blocks of our bodies. Alongside proteins, DNA also encodes transcription factors and other regulatory elements essential for cellular function. When these proteins combine with minerals, sugars, and fats, they form the complex structures and systems within our cells, tissues, organs, and ultimately, the entire human body.

Interestingly, this genetic code is the same in every cell of our body, aside from some minor mutations and reproductive cells. However, if the code is identical in every cell, why does an intestinal cell look and function so differently from a neuron or a fat cell? The answer lies not in the code itself but in how much and which parts of it are read. Each cell type requires certain segments of the genetic code to be active, producing only the specific proteins necessary to adopt its unique identity and perform its specific functions.

This selective gene expression is governed by epigenetics, which determines which genes are "turned on" and ready to be expressed Ito proteins, versus those that are "turned off" or remain dormant not being expressed. Genes, it turns out, are only part of the puzzle. 

Epigenetics and Cellular Aging

Just as different cell types require specific patterns of gene expression, specific epigenetic patterns, cells from young and old people have distinct patterns too. An older persons intestinal cell, for instance, looks and functions differently from a younger persons one, reflecting a shift in its epigenetic profile. Remarkably, we can now read the epigenetic patterns of cells to accurately estimate their biological age—a concept known as biological age clocks. These clocks rely on various methodologies, with epigenetics as a primary indicator, to assess the age of a cell, tissue, organ, or even the whole body.

Epigenetics: A New Approach to Combat Aging

If epigentics, the selective expression of parts of the genome, determines the age of a cell, is it set in stone? Can we alter this code to slow or even reverse aging? The answer is yes. Multiple interventions affect the epigenome - quite simple natural things like diet, exercise or fasting can have dramatic age reducing effects on our epigenetic patterns. Then there are medicines, like metformin, and even supplements which also appears to have this effect. However these do not compare to recent advancements in science which allow us to modify, influence, and even reset the epigenetic code entirely.  Using what we now call Yamanaka Factors, researchers can take a cell from an old person and reset it to a more youthful state, even reverting it to pluripotent stem cells.

This breakthrough marks a “light bulb moment” in anti-aging science: epigenetics doesn’t just help us understand aging; it provides us with tools to fight it. By manipulating the epigenetic code, we may one day unlock the potential to extend cellular health and delay the effects of aging and chronic disease, making epigenetics a central player in the quest for longevity.

Copyright Dr Christopher Maclay 2024. All rights reserved.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only, it does not constitute medical advice. Please consult with your health care practitioner for personalised medical advice.