Deciphering the aging process through single-cell cytometric technologies

The advent of single-cell cytometric technologies, in conjunction with advances in single-cell biology, has significantly propelled forward the field of geroscience, enhancing our comprehension of the mechanisms underlying age-related diseases. Given that aging is a primary risk factor for numerous chronic health conditions, investigating the dynamic changes within the physiological landscape at the granularity of single cells is crucial for elucidating the molecular foundations of biological aging. Utilizing hallmarks of aging as a conceptual framework, we review current literature to delineate the progression of single-cell cytometric techniques and their pivotal applications in the exploration of molecular alterations associated with aging. We next discuss recent advancements in single-cell cytometry in terms of the development in instrument, software, and reagents, highlighting its promising and critical role in driving future breakthrough discoveries in aging research.