Genomics of ageing in twins

Area of Science:

• Gerontology and Genetics
• Molecular Biology and Epigenetics

Background:

• Aging is a complex process influenced by multiple factors, with genetics explaining only a fraction of lifespan variability.
• Increasing life expectancy necessitates identifying early-life factors impacting later-life health outcomes.
• Twin studies are crucial for distinguishing genetic from environmental contributions to aging.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the fundamental principles of twin study design.
• To highlight recent research integrating high-throughput 'omics' technologies with twin studies.
• To advance the understanding of molecular mechanisms underlying human aging.

Main Methods:

• Classical twin study design principles.
• Application of high-throughput technologies including genome/epigenome-wide assays and next-generation sequencing.
• Mass spectrometry (MS) based metabolic profiling.

Main Results:

• Twin studies effectively differentiate genetic from environmental influences on aging.
• Integration of 'omics' data with twin designs reveals novel molecular insights.
• Identification of key environmental, epigenetic, and lifestyle factors affecting lifespan and healthy aging.

Conclusions:

• Aging is a multifactorial process where non-genetic factors play a substantial role.
• Advanced 'omics' technologies combined with twin studies offer powerful tools for aging research.
• Further investigation is needed to fully elucidate the molecular pathways of human aging.