Aging through an epitranscriptomic lens.

Area of Science:

• Molecular Biology
• Gerontology
• Epigenetics

Background:

• The mechanistic causes of aging, characterized by functional decline and increased mortality, are not fully understood.
• The epitranscriptome, comprising over 150 post-transcriptional RNA modifications, significantly influences RNA function, cellular processes, and tissue regeneration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose the epitranscriptome as a critical, yet under-explored, modulator of the aging process.
• To investigate the link between age-dependent epitranscriptome alterations and age-associated pathologies.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis of existing research on epitranscriptomics and aging.
• Analysis of studies linking specific RNA modifications (e.g., N6-methyladenosine, inosine) to age-related physiological changes and diseases.

Main Results:

• Epitranscriptome dysfunction is implicated in numerous age-associated diseases, including cancer, neurodegeneration, cardiovascular, and autoimmune conditions.
• Specific RNA modifications, such as N6-methyladenosine and inosine, affect cardiac physiology and are linked to cardiac fibrosis.

Conclusions:

• Age-dependent epitranscriptome alterations warrant further exploration as a significant factor in aging.
• Mapping these alterations may identify novel biomarkers for health and lifespan and reveal therapeutic targets for age-related diseases and conditions.