Mechanisms and interventions of epigenetic aging

Qingqing Chu1, Yihang Li2, Zeming Wu3

  • 1Beijing Institute of Heart Lung and Blood Vessel Diseases, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.

Cell Chemical Biology
|June 18, 2026
PubMed
Summary

Epigenetic dysregulation drives aging by disrupting DNA, histones, and RNA, leading to cellular aging features. Interventions targeting these epigenetic alterations show promise but face challenges.

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Epigenetic changes alter the physical structure of the DNA without changing the genetic sequence and often regulate whether genes are turned on or off. This regulation ensures that each cell produces only proteins necessary for its function. For example, proteins that promote bone growth are not produced in muscle cells. Epigenetic mechanisms play an essential role in healthy development. Conversely, precisely regulated epigenetic mechanisms are disrupted in diseases like cancer.
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Epigenetic Regulation01:46

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Epigenetic mechanisms play an essential role in healthy development. Conversely, precisely regulated epigenetic mechanisms are disrupted in diseases like cancer.
Epigenetic Regulation01:46

Epigenetic Regulation

Epigenetic mechanisms play an essential role in healthy development. Conversely, precisely regulated epigenetic mechanisms are disrupted in diseases like cancer.
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Aging

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The Effect of Aging on Tissues01:19

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