Longevity Biotechnology Applications

Overview

Longevity biotechnology focuses on extending healthspan and lifespan through scientific advancements. Key areas include epigenetic reprogramming, ageing clocks, lifestyle interventions, and therapeutic strategies.

Epigenetic Reprogramming

Epigenetic modifications play a crucial role in ageing. Reprogramming strategies aim to reverse cellular ageing without erasing cellular identity. Chemical-based approaches using small molecules like DNA methyltransferase and histone deacetylase inhibitors show promise.

Ageing Clocks

Ageing clocks measure biological age and the rate of ageing. Epigenetic clocks based on DNA methylation patterns are reliable indicators. These include:

• First-generation clocks (Horvath, Hannum)
• Second-generation clocks (PhenoAge, GrimAge)
• Pace-of-ageing clocks (DunedinPoAm, DunedinPACE)

Lifestyle Interventions

Lifestyle factors significantly influence ageing:

• Diet: Mediterranean diet and caloric restriction can reduce ageing pace.
• Exercise: Aerobic activity is linked to a younger predicted age.
• Psychosocial Factors: Stress, loneliness, and trauma accelerate ageing, while mental well-being interventions may decelerate it.

Therapeutic Strategies

• Epigenetic Drugs: Manipulate epigenetic modifications to slow ageing.
• Stem Cell Therapies: Hold potential for rejuvenation.
• Senolytics: Remove senescent cells to slow ageing.
• mTOR Inhibition: Rapamycin and caloric restriction enhance lifespan and healthspan.

Brain Longevity

Focuses on extending healthspan through:

• Genetic Factors: APOE and FOXO3 genes influence healthspan.
• Social Determinants: Higher socioeconomic status promotes healthier ageing.
• Microbiome-Based Therapeutics: Probiotics and prebiotics mitigate biological ageing.

Challenges and Future Directions

• Limitations: Variability in ageing clocks and population bias.
• Future Research: Testing interventions, personalized medicine, and advancements in AI and deep sequencing.

Conclusion

Longevity biotechnology offers promising avenues to extend healthspan and lifespan. Interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation are essential to address challenges and translate research into practical applications.