Cytomegalovirus infection accelerates epigenetic aging

Area of Science:

• Epigenetics
• Immunology
• Gerontology

Background:

• DNA methylation (DNAm) changes with age, forming an 'epigenetic clock' to measure biological age.
• Immunosenescence, or immune system aging, is influenced by factors like chronic cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection.
• The relationship between epigenetic age and CMV seropositivity in relation to immunosenescence is not well understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the correlation between cytomegalovirus (CMV) seropositivity and epigenetic age.
• To explore the impact of CMV infection on biological aging markers in elderly individuals.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of DNA methylation patterns to determine epigenetic age.
• Comparison of epigenetic age between CMV-seropositive and CMV-seronegative individuals.
• Study conducted on the Vitality 90+ cohort, including nonagenarians and young controls.

Main Results:

• CMV seropositivity was associated with a significantly higher epigenetic age in both young controls and nonagenarians.
• The median epigenetic age was higher in CMV-seropositive individuals across both age groups.
• These findings highlight a novel aspect of CMV's role in aging processes.

Conclusions:

• Chronic cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is associated with an accelerated epigenetic aging process.
• Epigenetic age may serve as a biomarker reflecting the impact of CMV on biological aging.
• Further research is warranted to understand the pathological implications of CMV-driven epigenetic aging.