Potential Predictor of Epigenetic Age Acceleration in Men: 2D:4D Finger Pattern
Paulina Pruszkowska-Przybylska1, Rezvan Noroozi2,3, Joanna Rudnicka2,3
1Department of Anthropology, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Łódź, Łódź, Poland.
Summary
Males with a higher second to fourth digit ratio (2D:4D) indicating greater prenatal estrogen exposure showed accelerated epigenetic aging. This suggests prenatal hormone levels may influence later-life aging processes.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Epigenetics
- Gerontology
Background:
- The second to fourth digit ratio (2D:4D) is a recognized marker of prenatal sex hormone exposure.
- A lower 2D:4D ratio typically indicates higher prenatal androgenization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between the 2D:4D digit ratio and DNA methylation (DNAm) age.
- To determine if this association is sex-dependent.
Main Methods:
- Genome-wide methylation analysis using EPIC microarray technology on blood samples from 182 adults.
- Calculation of epigenetic age and epigenetic age acceleration using multiple algorithms.
- Measurement of finger lengths to determine the 2D:4D ratio.
Main Results:
- Males exhibiting a "female" left-hand 2D:4D pattern (ratio ≥ 1) demonstrated more accelerated epigenetic age compared to males with a "male" pattern.
- This acceleration was observed using PhenoAge and DNAmTL epigenetic clocks.
Conclusions:
- A "female" finger pattern (2D:4D ≥ 1) in males is linked to epigenetic age acceleration.
- Prenatal estrogen exposure in males may influence the aging process later in life.
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