GDF-15 as a proxy for epigenetic aging: associations with biological age markers, and physical function.
Margalida Torrens-Mas1,2, Cayetano Navas-Enamorado1, Aina Galmes-Panades3,4
1Translational Research in Aging and Longevity (TRIAL) Group, Health Research Institute of the Balearic Islands (IdISBa), 07120, Palma, Spain.
Biogerontology
|December 7, 2024
Summary
Growth Differentiation Factor 15 (GDF-15) increases with age and correlates with epigenetic aging markers. This biomarker may help assess age-related functional decline and is easier to measure than DNA methylation.
Area of Science:
- Biomarkers of Aging
- Epigenetics
- Gerontology
Background:
- Growth Differentiation Factor 15 (GDF-15) is an emerging biomarker linked to aging processes.
- Its role in healthy aging and association with biological age markers requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate circulating GDF-15 levels in healthy individuals.
- To explore associations between GDF-15 and epigenetic aging (DNA methylation clocks).
- To examine GDF-15's relationship with physical performance and other age-related biomarkers.
Main Methods:
- Quantified GDF-15 levels using ELISA in 72 healthy participants.
- Assessed physical function, body composition, and general health.
- Correlated GDF-15 with multiple DNA methylation clocks (GrimAge, PhenoAge, Hannum, Zhang).
Main Results:
- GDF-15 levels significantly increase with age, especially over 60.
- GDF-15 positively correlated with epigenetic aging clocks (GrimAge, PhenoAge, Hannum, Zhang).
- Elevated GDF-15 linked to impaired glycemic control, inflammation, and reduced physical function (lung function, grip strength), particularly in men.
Conclusions:
- GDF-15 is a potential biomarker for biological aging and age-related functional decline.
- GDF-15 shows strong associations with epigenetic aging markers.
- Its ease of measurement offers clinical advantages over DNA methylation for health assessment.
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