Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 7, 2026
09:10
Measuring Single-Cell Aging with an Imaging-based Biomarker of Chromatin and Epigenetic Aging
Published on: January 30, 2026
208
Epigenetic Age Acceleration and Hearing Function in US Older Adults
Jessica S West1,2,3, Qinyi Chen4, Sherri L Smith1,2,5
1Department of Head and Neck Surgery & Communication Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA.
Ear and Hearing
|February 6, 2026
Summary
Epigenetic age acceleration is linked to hearing loss in older adults, with significant sex differences observed. GrimAge acceleration (GrimAA) was associated with poorer hearing, especially in females.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Epigenetics
- Audiology
Background:
- Hearing loss is a common age-related condition.
- Epigenetic age acceleration (EAA) is a potential biomarker for aging.
- Limited research exists on EAA and hearing loss, especially concerning sex differences.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between EAA and hearing function in older adults.
- To examine sex differences in the relationship between EAA and hearing loss.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of data from the Health and Retirement Study (n=1755).
- Utilized five epigenetic clocks for EAA assessment.
- Multivariable regression models to assess EAA's link to hearing test scores and hearing loss.
Main Results:
- Phenotypic age acceleration, GrimAge acceleration (GrimAA), and methylation-based pace of aging were linked to lower hearing scores.
- GrimAA was associated with higher odds of hearing loss.
- These associations were more pronounced in females than males.
Conclusions:
- EAA may serve as a biomarker for age-related hearing loss.
- Sex differences in aging and hearing loss warrant further investigation.
- Epigenetic mechanisms could be targets for interventions to prevent hearing loss, particularly in women.
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