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Bourassa KJ, Sbarra DA. Trauma, adversity, and biological aging: behavioral mechanisms relevant to treatment and theory. Transl Psychiatry 2024; 14:285. [PMID: 38997260 PMCID: PMC11245531 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-024-03004-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Although stress and adversity are largely universal experiences, people exposed to greater hardship are at increased risk for negative health consequences. Recent studies identify accelerated biological aging as a mechanism that could explain how trauma and adversity gives rise to poor health, and advances in this area of study coincide with technological innovations in the measurement of biological aging, particularly epigenetic profiles consistent with accelerated aging derived from DNA methylation. In this review, we provide an overview of the current literature examining how adversity might accelerate biological aging, with a specific focus on social and health behaviors. The most extensive evidence in this area suggests that health-compromising behaviors, particularly smoking, may partially explain the association between adversity and accelerated aging. Although there is relatively less published support for the role of social behaviors, emerging evidence points to the importance of social connection as a mechanism for future study. Our review highlights the need to determine the extent to which the associations from adversity to accelerated aging are consistent with causal processes. As we consider these questions, the review emphasizes methodological approaches from the causal inference literature that can help deepen our understanding of how stress and trauma might result in poor health. The use of these methodologies will help provide evidence as to which behavioral interventions might slow aging and improve health, particularly among populations that more often experience adversity and trauma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle J Bourassa
- VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center, Durham VA Health Care System, Durham, NC, USA.
- Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Durham Veteran Affairs (VA) Health Care System, Durham, NC, USA.
- Center for the Study of Aging and Human Development, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA.
| | - David A Sbarra
- Department of Psychology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
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2
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Martínez-Magaña JJ, Hurtado-Soriano J, Rivero-Segura NA, Montalvo-Ortiz JL, Garcia-delaTorre P, Becerril-Rojas K, Gomez-Verjan JC. Towards a Novel Frontier in the Use of Epigenetic Clocks in Epidemiology. Arch Med Res 2024; 55:103033. [PMID: 38955096 DOI: 10.1016/j.arcmed.2024.103033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
Health problems associated with aging are a major public health concern for the future. Aging is a complex process with wide intervariability among individuals. Therefore, there is a need for innovative public health strategies that target factors associated with aging and the development of tools to assess the effectiveness of these strategies accurately. Novel approaches to measure biological age, such as epigenetic clocks, have become relevant. These clocks use non-sequential variable information from the genome and employ mathematical algorithms to estimate biological age based on DNA methylation levels. Therefore, in the present study, we comprehensively review the current status of the epigenetic clocks and their associations across the human phenome. We emphasize the potential utility of these tools in an epidemiological context, particularly in evaluating the impact of public health interventions focused on promoting healthy aging. Our review describes associations between epigenetic clocks and multiple traits across the life and health span. Additionally, we highlighted the evolution of studies beyond mere associations to establish causal mechanisms between epigenetic age and disease. We explored the application of epigenetic clocks to measure the efficacy of interventions focusing on rejuvenation.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Jaime Martínez-Magaña
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs National Center for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Clinical Neuroscience Division, West Haven, CT, USA; VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA
| | | | | | - Janitza L Montalvo-Ortiz
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs National Center for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Clinical Neuroscience Division, West Haven, CT, USA; VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA
| | - Paola Garcia-delaTorre
- Unidad de Investigación Epidemiológica y en Servicios de Salud, Área de Envejecimiento, Centro Médico Nacional, Siglo XXI, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Mexico City, Mexico
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3
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Knisely MR, Masese RV, Mathias JG, Yang Q, Hatch D, Lê BM, Luyster F, Garrett ME, Tanabe PJ, Shah NR, Ashley-Koch A. Epigenetic Aging Associations With Psychoneurological Symptoms and Social Functioning in Adults With Sickle Cell Disease. Biol Res Nurs 2024:10998004241250322. [PMID: 38679469 DOI: 10.1177/10998004241250322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
Objective: Sickle cell disease (SCD), the most common inherited blood disorder in the United States, is associated with severe psychoneurological symptoms. While epigenetic age acceleration has been linked to psychoneurological symptom burden in other diseases, this connection is unexplored in SCD. This study aimed to assess the association between epigenetic age acceleration and psychoneurological symptom burden in SCD. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, emotional impact, pain impact, sleep impact, social functioning, and cognitive function were assessed in 87 adults living with SCD. DNA methylation data were generated from blood specimens and used to calculate epigenetic age using five clocks (Horvath, Hannum, PhenoAge, GrimAge, & DunedinPACE). Associations between epigenetic age acceleration and symptoms were assessed. Results: The sample (N = 87) had a mean (SD) chronologic age was 30.6 (8.1) years. Epigenetic age acceleration was associated with several symptom outcomes. GrimAge age acceleration (β = -0.49, p = .03) and increased DunedinPACE (β = -2.23, p = .004) were associated with worse emotional impact scores. PhenoAge (β = -0.32, p = .04) and the GrimAge (β = -0.48, p = .05) age acceleration were associated with worse pain impact scores. Increased DunedinPACE (β = -2.07 p = .04) were associated with worse sleep impact scores. Increased DunedinPACE (β = -2.87, p = .005) was associated with worse social functioning scores. We did not find associations between epigenetic age acceleration and cognitive function in this sample. Conclusion: Epigenetic age acceleration was associated with worse symptom experiences, suggesting the potential for epigenetic age acceleration as a biomarker to aid in risk stratification or targets for intervention to mitigate symptom burden in SCD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rita V Masese
- Center for Bioethics, Department of Social Medicine, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Joacy G Mathias
- Division of Women's Community and Population Health, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Qing Yang
- Duke University School of Nursing, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Daniel Hatch
- Duke University School of Nursing, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Brandon M Lê
- Duke Molecular Physiology Institute, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Faith Luyster
- University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | | | | | - Nirmish R Shah
- Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Allison Ashley-Koch
- Duke Molecular Physiology Institute and Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
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4
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Bourassa KJ, Garrett ME, Caspi A, Dennis M, Hall KS, Moffitt TE, Taylor GA, Ashley-Koch AE, Beckham JC, Kimbrel NA. Posttraumatic stress disorder, trauma, and accelerated biological aging among post-9/11 veterans. Transl Psychiatry 2024; 14:4. [PMID: 38184702 PMCID: PMC10771513 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-023-02704-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/08/2024] Open
Abstract
People who experience trauma and develop posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are at increased risk for poor health. One mechanism that could explain this risk is accelerated biological aging, which is associated with the accumulation of chronic diseases, disability, and premature mortality. Using data from 2309 post-9/11 United States military veterans who participated in the VISN 6 MIRECC's Post-Deployment Mental Health Study, we tested whether PTSD and trauma exposure were associated with accelerated rate of biological aging, assessed using a validated DNA methylation (DNAm) measure of epigenetic aging-DunedinPACE. Veterans with current PTSD were aging faster than those who did not have current PTSD, β = 0.18, 95% CI [0.11, 0.27], p < .001. This effect represented an additional 0.4 months of biological aging each year. Veterans were also aging faster if they reported more PTSD symptoms, β = 0.13, 95% CI [0.09, 0.16], p < 0.001, or higher levels of trauma exposure, β = 0.09, 95% CI [0.05, 0.13], p < 0.001. Notably, veterans with past PTSD were aging more slowly than those with current PTSD, β = -0.21, 95% CI [-0.35, -0.07], p = .003. All reported results accounted for age, gender, self-reported race/ethnicity, and education, and remained when controlling for smoking. Our findings suggest that an accelerated rate of biological aging could help explain how PTSD contributes to poor health and highlights the potential benefits of providing efficacious treatment to populations at increased risk of trauma and PTSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle J Bourassa
- Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Durham VA Health Care System, Durham, USA.
- VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center, Durham VA Health Care System, Durham, USA.
- Center for the Study of Aging and Human Development, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, USA.
| | | | - Avshalom Caspi
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, US
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Duke University, Durham, USA
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
- Center for the Study of Population Health & Aging, Duke University Population Research Institute, Durham, USA
| | - Michelle Dennis
- VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center, Durham VA Health Care System, Durham, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, US
| | - Katherine S Hall
- Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Durham VA Health Care System, Durham, USA
- VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center, Durham VA Health Care System, Durham, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Geriatrics, Duke University, Durham, USA
| | - Terrie E Moffitt
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, US
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Duke University, Durham, USA
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
- Center for the Study of Population Health & Aging, Duke University Population Research Institute, Durham, USA
| | - Gregory A Taylor
- Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Durham VA Health Care System, Durham, USA
- VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center, Durham VA Health Care System, Durham, USA
- Department of Integrative Immunobiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, USA
| | | | - Jean C Beckham
- VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center, Durham VA Health Care System, Durham, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, US
| | - Nathan A Kimbrel
- VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center, Durham VA Health Care System, Durham, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, US
- VA Health Services Research and Development Center of Innovation to Accelerate Discovery and Practice Transformation, Durham VA Health Care System, Durham, USA
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Dutta S, Goodrich JM, Dolinoy DC, Ruden DM. Biological Aging Acceleration Due to Environmental Exposures: An Exciting New Direction in Toxicogenomics Research. Genes (Basel) 2023; 15:16. [PMID: 38275598 PMCID: PMC10815440 DOI: 10.3390/genes15010016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Biological clock technologies are designed to assess the acceleration of biological age (B-age) in diverse cell types, offering a distinctive opportunity in toxicogenomic research to explore the impact of environmental stressors, social challenges, and unhealthy lifestyles on health impairment. These clocks also play a role in identifying factors that can hinder aging and promote a healthy lifestyle. Over the past decade, researchers in epigenetics have developed testing methods that predict the chronological and biological age of organisms. These methods rely on assessing DNA methylation (DNAm) levels at specific CpG sites, RNA levels, and various biomolecules across multiple cell types, tissues, and entire organisms. Commonly known as 'biological clocks' (B-clocks), these estimators hold promise for gaining deeper insights into the pathways contributing to the development of age-related disorders. They also provide a foundation for devising biomedical or social interventions to prevent, reverse, or mitigate these disorders. This review article provides a concise overview of various epigenetic clocks and explores their susceptibility to environmental stressors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sudipta Dutta
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA;
| | - Jaclyn M. Goodrich
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; (J.M.G.); (D.C.D.)
| | - Dana C. Dolinoy
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; (J.M.G.); (D.C.D.)
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Douglas M. Ruden
- C. S. Mott Center for Human Health and Development, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
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Katrinli S, Smith AK, Drury SS, Covault J, Ford JD, Singh V, Reese B, Johnson A, Scranton V, Fall P, Briggs-Gowan M, Grasso DJ. Cumulative stress, PTSD, and emotion dysregulation during pregnancy and epigenetic age acceleration in Hispanic mothers and their newborn infants. Epigenetics 2023; 18:2231722. [PMID: 37433036 DOI: 10.1080/15592294.2023.2231722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy can exacerbate or prompt the onset of stress-related disorders, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD is associated with heightened stress responsivity and emotional dysregulation, as well as increased risk of chronic disorders and mortality. Further, maternal PTSD is associated with gestational epigenetic age acceleration in newborns, implicating the prenatal period as a developmental time period for the transmission of effects across generations. Here, we evaluated the associations between PTSD symptoms, maternal epigenetic age acceleration, and infant gestational epigenetic age acceleration in 89 maternal-neonatal dyads. Trauma-related experiences and PTSD symptoms in mothers were assessed during the third trimester of pregnancy. The MethylationEPIC array was used to generate DNA methylation data from maternal and neonatal saliva samples collected within 24 h of infant birth. Maternal epigenetic age acceleration was calculated using Horvath's multi-tissue clock, PhenoAge and GrimAge. Gestational epigenetic age was estimated using the Haftorn clock. Maternal cumulative past-year stress (GrimAge: p = 3.23e-04, PhenoAge: p = 9.92e-03), PTSD symptoms (GrimAge: p = 0.019), and difficulties in emotion regulation (GrimAge: p = 0.028) were associated with accelerated epigenetic age in mothers. Maternal PTSD symptoms were associated with lower gestational epigenetic age acceleration in neonates (p = 0.032). Overall, our results suggest that maternal cumulative past-year stress exposure and trauma-related symptoms may increase the risk for age-related problems in mothers and developmental problems in their newborns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyma Katrinli
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Alicia K Smith
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Stacy S Drury
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jonathan Covault
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA
- Institute for Systems Genomics, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Julian D Ford
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Vijender Singh
- Computational Biology Core, University of Connecticut, School of Medicine, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Bo Reese
- Center for Genome Innovation, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Amy Johnson
- Obstetrics & Gynecology, Hartford Hospital, Hartford, CT, USA
| | - Victoria Scranton
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Pamela Fall
- Clinical Research Center Core Laboratory, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Margaret Briggs-Gowan
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Damion J Grasso
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA
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7
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Harvanek ZM, Boks MP, Vinkers CH, Higgins-Chen AT. The Cutting Edge of Epigenetic Clocks: In Search of Mechanisms Linking Aging and Mental Health. Biol Psychiatry 2023; 94:694-705. [PMID: 36764569 PMCID: PMC10409884 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2023.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
Individuals with psychiatric disorders are at increased risk of age-related diseases and early mortality. Recent studies demonstrate that this link between mental health and aging is reflected in epigenetic clocks, aging biomarkers based on DNA methylation. The reported relationships between epigenetic clocks and mental health are mostly correlational, and the mechanisms are poorly understood. Here, we review recent progress concerning the molecular and cellular processes underlying epigenetic clocks as well as novel technologies enabling further studies of the causes and consequences of epigenetic aging. We then review the current literature on how epigenetic clocks relate to specific aspects of mental health, such as stress, medications, substance use, health behaviors, and symptom clusters. We propose an integrated framework where mental health and epigenetic aging are each broken down into multiple distinct processes, which are then linked to each other, using stress and schizophrenia as examples. This framework incorporates the heterogeneity and complexity of both mental health conditions and aging, may help reconcile conflicting results, and provides a basis for further hypothesis-driven research in humans and model systems to investigate potentially causal mechanisms linking aging and mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary M Harvanek
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Marco P Boks
- Department of Psychiatry, University Medical Center Utrecht Brain Center, University of Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Christiaan H Vinkers
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam University Medical Center, location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Mood, Anxiety, Psychosis, Sleep & Stress program, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Albert T Higgins-Chen
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut; Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut.
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Bourassa KJ, Caspi A, Brennan GM, Hall KS, Harrington H, Houts R, Kimbrel NA, Poulton R, Ramrakha S, Taylor GA, Moffitt TE. Which Types of Stress Are Associated With Accelerated Biological Aging? Comparing Perceived Stress, Stressful Life Events, Childhood Adversity, and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. Psychosom Med 2023; 85:389-396. [PMID: 37053097 PMCID: PMC10239326 DOI: 10.1097/psy.0000000000001197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/14/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Stress and stressful events are associated with poorer health; however, there are multiple ways to conceptualize and measure stress and stress responses. One physiological mechanism through which stress could result in poorer health is accelerated biological aging. This study tested which types of stress were associated with accelerated biological aging in adulthood. METHODS Studying 955 participants from the Dunedin Longitudinal Study, we tested whether four types of stress assessed from ages 32 to 45 years-perceived stress, number of stressful life events, adverse childhood experiences, and posttraumatic stress disorder-were associated with accelerated biological aging. RESULTS Higher levels of all four measures of stress were significantly associated with accelerated aging in separate models. In a combined model, more perceived stress and more stressful life events remained associated with faster aging, and the stress measures explained 6.9% of the variance in aging. The magnitudes of the associations between the four measures of stress and biological aging were comparable to associations for smoking and low education, two established risk factors for accelerated aging. People with high levels of perceived stress, numerous adverse childhood experiences (4+), high stressful life event counts, or posttraumatic stress disorder were aging an additional estimated 2.4 months, 1.1 additional months, 1.4 months, and 1.4 months per year, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Assessing stress, particularly perceived stress, could help identify people at risk of accelerated aging. Intervening to treat stress or the health-relevant sequelae of stress could potentially slow the rate at which people are aging, improving their health as they age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle J. Bourassa
- Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Durham VA Healthcare System
| | - Avshalom Caspi
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Duke University
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
- Center for the Study of Population Health & Aging, Duke University Population Research Institute
- Center for the Study of Aging and Human Development, Duke University
| | - Grace M. Brennan
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Duke University
- Center for the Study of Aging and Human Development, Duke University
| | - Katherine S. Hall
- Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Durham VA Healthcare System
- Center for the Study of Aging and Human Development, Duke University
- Department of Medicine, Division of Geriatrics, Duke University
| | | | - Renate Houts
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Duke University
| | - Nathan A. Kimbrel
- VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center, Durham VA Healthcare System
- VA Health Services Research and Development Center of Innovation to Accelerate Discovery and Practice Transformation, Durham VA Healthcare System
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine
| | - Richie Poulton
- Department of Psychology, University of Otago, Otago, New Zealand
| | - Sandhya Ramrakha
- Department of Psychology, University of Otago, Otago, New Zealand
| | - Gregory A. Taylor
- Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Durham VA Healthcare System
- Center for the Study of Aging and Human Development, Duke University
- Department of Medicine, Division of Geriatrics, Duke University
- Department of Immunology, Duke University Medical Center
| | - Terrie E. Moffitt
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Duke University
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
- Center for the Study of Population Health & Aging, Duke University Population Research Institute
- Center for the Study of Aging and Human Development, Duke University
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9
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Protsenko E, Wolkowitz OM, Yaffe K. Associations of stress and stress-related psychiatric disorders with GrimAge acceleration: review and suggestions for future work. Transl Psychiatry 2023; 13:142. [PMID: 37130894 PMCID: PMC10154294 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-023-02360-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The notion of "biological aging" as distinct from chronological aging has been of increasing interest in psychiatry, and many studies have explored associations of stress and psychiatric illness with accelerated biological aging. The "epigenetic clocks" are one avenue of this research, wherein "biological age" is estimated using DNA methylation data from specific CpG dinucleotide sites within the human genome. Many iterations of the epigenetic clocks have been developed, but the GrimAge clock continues to stand out for its ability to predict morbidity and mortality. Several studies have now explored associations of stress, PTSD, and MDD with GrimAge acceleration (GrimAA). While stress, PTSD, and MDD are distinct psychiatric entities, they may share common mechanisms underlying accelerated biological aging. Yet, no one has offered a review of the evidence on associations of stress and stress-related psychopathology with GrimAA. In this review, we identify nine publications on associations of stress, PTSD, and MDD with GrimAA. We find that results are mixed both within and across each of these exposures. However, we also find that analytic methods - and specifically, the choice of covariates - vary widely between studies. To address this, we draw upon popular methods from the field of clinical epidemiology to offer (1) a systematic framework for covariate selection, and (2) an approach to results reporting that facilitates analytic consensus. Although covariate selection will differ by the research question, we encourage researchers to consider adjustment for tobacco, alcohol use, physical activity, race, sex, adult socioeconomic status, medical comorbidity, and blood cell composition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ekaterina Protsenko
- Department of Psychiatry, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA.
- Department Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco (UCSF) School of Medicine, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Owen M Wolkowitz
- Weill Institute for Neurosciences and Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California San Francisco (UCSF) School of Medicine, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Kristine Yaffe
- Department Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco (UCSF) School of Medicine, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Weill Institute for Neurosciences and Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California San Francisco (UCSF) School of Medicine, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco (UCSF) School of Medicine, San Francisco, CA, USA
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10
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Yusupov N, Dieckmann L, Erhart M, Sauer S, Rex-Haffner M, Kopf-Beck J, Brückl TM, Czamara D, Binder EB. Transdiagnostic evaluation of epigenetic age acceleration and burden of psychiatric disorders. Neuropsychopharmacology 2023:10.1038/s41386-023-01579-3. [PMID: 37069357 PMCID: PMC10354057 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-023-01579-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2023]
Abstract
Different psychiatric disorders as well as exposure to adverse life events have individually been associated with multiple age-related diseases and mortality. Age acceleration in different epigenetic clocks can serve as biomarker for such risk and could help to disentangle the interplay of psychiatric comorbidity and early adversity on age-related diseases and mortality. We evaluated five epigenetic clocks (Horvath, Hannum, PhenoAge, GrimAge and DunedinPoAm) in a transdiagnostic psychiatric sample using epigenome-wide DNA methylation data from peripheral blood of 429 subjects from two studies at the Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry. Burden of psychiatric disease, represented by a weighted score, was significantly associated with biological age acceleration as measured by GrimAge and DunedinPoAm (R2-adj. 0.22 and 0.33 for GrimAge and DunedinPoAm, respectively), but not the other investigated clocks. The relation of burden of psychiatric disease appeared independent of differences in socioeconomic status and medication. Our findings indicate that increased burden of psychiatric disease may associate with accelerated biological aging. This highlights the importance of medical management of patients with multiple psychiatric comorbidities and the potential usefulness of specific epigenetic clocks for early detection of risk and targeted intervention to reduce mortality in psychiatric patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natan Yusupov
- Department of Translational Research in Psychiatry, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Munich, 80804, Germany.
- International Max Planck Research School for Translational Psychiatry (IMPRS-TP), Munich, Germany.
| | - Linda Dieckmann
- Department of Translational Research in Psychiatry, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Munich, 80804, Germany
- International Max Planck Research School for Translational Psychiatry (IMPRS-TP), Munich, Germany
| | - Mira Erhart
- Department of Translational Research in Psychiatry, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Munich, 80804, Germany
- International Max Planck Research School for Translational Psychiatry (IMPRS-TP), Munich, Germany
| | - Susann Sauer
- Department of Translational Research in Psychiatry, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Munich, 80804, Germany
| | - Monika Rex-Haffner
- Department of Translational Research in Psychiatry, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Munich, 80804, Germany
| | - Johannes Kopf-Beck
- Department of Translational Research in Psychiatry, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Munich, 80804, Germany
- Department of Psychology, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Tanja M Brückl
- Department of Translational Research in Psychiatry, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Munich, 80804, Germany
| | - Darina Czamara
- Department of Translational Research in Psychiatry, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Munich, 80804, Germany
| | - Elisabeth B Binder
- Department of Translational Research in Psychiatry, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Munich, 80804, Germany
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11
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Nilaweera D, Phyo AZZ, Teshale AB, Htun HL, Wrigglesworth J, Gurvich C, Freak-Poli R, Ryan J. Lifetime posttraumatic stress disorder as a predictor of mortality: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Psychiatry 2023; 23:229. [PMID: 37032341 PMCID: PMC10084620 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-023-04716-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) could potentially increase the risk of mortality, and there is a need for a meta-analysis to quantify this association. This study aims to determine the extent to which PTSD is a predictor of mortality. METHODS EMBASE, MEDLINE, and PsycINFO were searched systematically on 12th February 2020, with updated searches conducted in July 2021, and December 2022 (PROSPERO CRD42019142971). Studies involving community-dwelling participants with a diagnosis of PTSD or PTSD symptoms, and a comparator group of individuals without PTSD, and which assessed mortality risk, were included. A random-effects meta-analysis was conducted on studies reporting Odds Ratio (OR), Hazard Ratio (HR), and Risk Ratio (RR), and subgroup analysis was also performed by age, sex, type of trauma experienced, PTSD diagnosis, and cause of death. RESULTS A total of 30 eligible studies of mostly good methodological quality were identified, with a total of more than 2.1 million participants with PTSD. The majority of studies involved male-dominated, veteran populations. PTSD was associated with a 47% (95% CI: 1.06-2.04) greater risk of mortality across six studies that reported OR/RR, and a 32% increased risk across 18 studies which reported time to death (HR: 1.32, 95% CI: 1.10-1.59). There was very high study heterogeneity (I2 > 94%) and this was not explained by the prespecified subgroup analysis. CONCLUSION PTSD is associated with increased mortality risk, however further research is required amongst civilians, involving women, and in individuals from underdeveloped countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dinuli Nilaweera
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Level 5, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Aung Zaw Zaw Phyo
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Level 5, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Achamyeleh Birhanu Teshale
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Level 5, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Htet Lin Htun
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Level 5, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Jo Wrigglesworth
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Level 5, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Caroline Gurvich
- Department of Psychiatry, Central Clinical School, Alfred Hospital and Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 2004, Australia
| | - Rosanne Freak-Poli
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Level 5, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Joanne Ryan
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Level 5, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia.
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12
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Katrinli S, King AP, Duval ER, Smith AK, Rajaram N, Liberzon I, Rauch SAM. DNA methylation GrimAge acceleration in US military veterans with PTSD. Neuropsychopharmacology 2023; 48:773-780. [PMID: 36725867 PMCID: PMC10066228 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-023-01537-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2022] [Revised: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Epigenetic alterations in DNA methylation might mediate gene expression effects of trauma underlying PTSD symptoms, or effects of PTSD on related health problems. PTSD is associated with all-cause morbidity and premature mortality, suggesting accelerated biological aging. We measured genome-wide DNA methylation (Illumina MethylationEPIC BeadChip) in whole blood in a treatment study for combat-related PTSD - "PROGrESS", a multisite RCT comparing sertraline plus enhanced medication management (SERT + EMM), prolonged exposure (PE) therapy plus placebo (PE + PLB), and the combination (SERT + PE). DNA methylation was measured in 140 US military veterans who served in Iraq and/or Afghanistan (112 current PTSD cases enrolled in a PTSD treatment study and 28 veterans without PTSD history controls), and also 59 non-trauma exposed controls at baseline posttreatment (24 weeks after baseline). Increased DNA methylation GrimAge acceleration (p = 8.8e-09) was observed in patients with PTSD compared to a pooled control group (trauma exposed and non-trauma exposed), suggesting a higher risk of premature mortality in those with PTSD. There was no difference in GrimAge acceleration between combat trauma and non-trauma exposed controls. No treatment-related changes in GrimAge acceleration were found in within-subject comparisons of PTSD patients pre- to post-treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyma Katrinli
- Emory University, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Anthony P King
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Health, and Institute for Behavioral Medicine Research, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.
| | - Elizabeth R Duval
- Department of Psychiatry, Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan, 4250 Plymouth Road, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Alicia K Smith
- Emory University, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Emory University, Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Nirmala Rajaram
- Department of Psychiatry, Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan, 4250 Plymouth Road, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
- Veterans Affairs Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Israel Liberzon
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Science, Texas A&M Health, Bryan, TX, USA
| | - Sheila A M Rauch
- Emory University, Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Atlanta VA Healthcare System GA, Atlanta, GA, USA
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13
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Accelerated epigenetic aging at birth interacts with parenting hostility to predict child temperament and subsequent psychological symptoms. Dev Psychopathol 2023; 35:109-118. [PMID: 34620266 DOI: 10.1017/s0954579421000614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
In an effort to elucidate new factors that may contribute to developmental psychopathology, the current study examined whether accelerated epigenetic aging at birth related to children's differential susceptibility to the effects of aversive parenting on early emerging mental health risk. Using data from a multiethnic birth cohort, the interaction between Horvath's methylation age in umbilical cord blood and hostile parenting behaviors was examined in relation to perceptions of infant's temperament at 6 months and to children's psychological symptoms at 3 years in 154 families. Results broadly revealed that children with higher levels of accelerated methylation aging evinced more unpredictable temperaments and more psychological symptoms if their mothers reported more hostile parenting, but showed fewer difficulties if mothers engaged in less hostile parenting; children with lower levels of accelerated methylation age did not show associations between hostility and temperament or psychological symptoms. Effects were not accounted for by gestational age at birth, demographic factors, or the distribution of cell subtypes. These findings suggest that accelerated epigenetic age may function as a form of differential susceptibility, signaling increased risk for psychopathology in more aversive contexts but decreased risk in less aversive early environments. Taken together, they point to a novel biological process to consider within risk for psychopathology.
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14
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Reduced epigenetic age in older adults who volunteer. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2023; 148:106000. [PMID: 36521251 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2022.106000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2022] [Revised: 12/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Volunteering is associated with improved health and well-being outcomes, including a reduced risk of mortality. However, the biological mechanisms underlying the association between volunteering and healthy aging and longevity have not been well-established. We evaluated if volunteering was associated with reduced epigenetic age acceleration in older adults. METHODS We evaluated associations between volunteering and age acceleration, measured by 13 DNA methylation (DNAm) "epigenetic clocks" in 4011 older adults (Mage=69 years; SDage=10 years) who participated in the Health and Retirement Study. We assessed 9 first-generation clocks (Horvath, Hannum, Horvath Skin, Lin, Garagnani, Vidalbralo, Weidner, Yang, and Bocklandt, which predict chronological age) and 4 second-generation clocks (Zhang, PhenoAge, GrimAge, and DunedinPoAm, which predict future disease or longevity). We quantified the total associations between volunteering and DNAm age acceleration as well as the extent to which these associations might be attributable to potential confounding by individual demographics (e.g., race), social demographics (e.g., income), health factors (e.g., diabetes), and health behaviors (e.g., smoking). RESULTS Volunteering was associated with reduced epigenetic age acceleration across 6 epigenetic clocks optimized for predicting health and longevity (False Discovery Rate [FDR] q < 0.0001 for epigenetic clocks: PhenoAge, GrimAge, DunedinPoAm, Zhang mortality, Yang mitotic; FDR q < 0.01: Hannum). These associations were mostly independent of demographic and health factors, but substantially attenuated after adjusting for health behaviors. CONCLUSION Volunteering was associated with reduced epigenetic age acceleration in 6 of 13 (mostly second-generation) epigenetic clocks. Results provide preliminary evidence that volunteering might provide health benefits through slower biological aging and implicate health behaviors as one potential mechanism of such effects.
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Carvalho CM, Coimbra BM, Bugiga A, Marques DF, Kiyomi Ota V, Mello AF, Mello MF, Belangero SI. Hyperarousal Symptom Severity in Women with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Might Be Associated with LINE-1 Hypomethylation in Childhood Sexual Abuse Victims. Complex Psychiatry 2023; 9:44-56. [PMID: 37034826 PMCID: PMC10080193 DOI: 10.1159/000529698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Sexual assault and a history of childhood sexual abuse (CSA) are related to posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) development. Long interspersed nuclear elements (LINE-1) are transposable elements, and their methylation is used to infer DNA global methylation. DNA methylation can be affected by trauma exposition which in turn would be associated with PTSD. Thus, we investigated if the LINE-1 methylation pattern is related to PTSD symptoms in females with a history of CSA. Methods This is a case-control study that examined, at baseline (W1), 64 women victims of sexual assault diagnosed with PTSD and 31 patients with PTSD who completed the 1-year follow-up (W2). Participants were categorized into two groups according to the presence of CSA (PTSDCSA+: NW1 = 19, NW2 = 10; PTSDCSA-: NW1 = 45, NW2 = 21). PTSD symptoms (re-experiencing, avoidance, hyperarousal, alterations in cognition/mood) were assessed using the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale, and the history of CSA was assessed by the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire. LINE-1 methylation was measured in three sites (CpG1, CpG2, CpG3) located in the 5'UTR region using bisulfite conversion followed by pyrosequencing. Linear regression models were performed to test the relation between LINE-1 CpG sites methylation and PTSD symptoms. Results We found a negative association between CpG2 methylation and hyperarousal symptoms among those in the PTSDCSA+ group in W1 (adjusted p = 0.003) compared to the PTSDCSA- group (p > 0.05). Still, no association was observed between other PTSD symptoms and other CpG sites. Further, in the longitudinal analysis, LINE-1 hypomethylation was no longer observed in PTSD participants exposed to CSA. Conclusion Our findings suggest that LINE-1 methylation may help understand the relationship between trauma and PTSD. However, more studies are needed to investigate LINE-1 as an epigenetic marker of psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Muniz Carvalho
- Department of Psychiatry of Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil
- LiNC - Laboratory of Integrative Neuroscience of Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Bruno Messina Coimbra
- Department of Psychiatry of Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute and Amsterdam Neuroscience Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Amanda Bugiga
- LiNC - Laboratory of Integrative Neuroscience of Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil
- Genetics Division of Department of Morphology and Genetics of Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Diogo Ferri Marques
- Department of Psychiatry of Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil
- LiNC - Laboratory of Integrative Neuroscience of Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Vanessa Kiyomi Ota
- LiNC - Laboratory of Integrative Neuroscience of Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil
- Genetics Division of Department of Morphology and Genetics of Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Andrea Feijó Mello
- Department of Psychiatry of Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marcelo Feijó Mello
- Department of Psychiatry of Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sintia Iole Belangero
- LiNC - Laboratory of Integrative Neuroscience of Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil
- Genetics Division of Department of Morphology and Genetics of Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil
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16
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Differences in DNA Methylation-Based Age Prediction Within Twin Pairs Discordant for Cancer. Twin Res Hum Genet 2022; 25:171-179. [PMID: 36073160 DOI: 10.1017/thg.2022.32] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
DNA methylation-based age acceleration (DNAmAA) is associated with cancer, with both cancer tissue and blood showing increased DNAmAA. We aimed to investigate whether DNAmAA is associated with cancer risk within twin pairs discordant for cancer, and whether DNAmAA has the potential to serve as a biomarker for such. The study included 47 monozygotic and 48 same-sex-dizygotic cancer-discordant twin pairs from the Finnish Twin Cohort study with blood samples available between 17 and 31 years after the cancer diagnosis. We studied all cancers (95 pairs), then separately breast cancer (24 pairs) and all sites other than breast cancer (71 pairs). DNAmAA was calculated for seven models: Horvath, Horvath intrinsic epigenetic age acceleration, Hannum, Hannum intrinsic epigenetic age acceleration, Hannum extrinsic epigenetic age acceleration, PhenoAge and GrimAge. Within-pair differences in DNAmAA were analyzed by paired t tests and linear regression. Twin pairs sampled before cancer diagnosis did not differ significantly in DNAmAA. However, the within-pair differences in DNAmAA before cancer diagnosis increased significantly the closer the cancer diagnosis was, and this acceleration extended for years after the diagnosis. Pairs sampled after the diagnosis differed for DNAmAA with the Horvath models capturing cancer diagnosis-associated DNAmAA across all three cancer groupings. The results suggest that DNAmAA in blood is associated with cancer diagnosis. This may be due to epigenetic alterations in relation to cancer, its treatment or associated lifestyle changes. Based on the current study, the biomarker potential of DNAmAA in blood appears to be limited.
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17
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Reale A, Tagliatesta S, Zardo G, Zampieri M. Counteracting aged DNA methylation states to combat ageing and age-related diseases. Mech Ageing Dev 2022; 206:111695. [PMID: 35760211 DOI: 10.1016/j.mad.2022.111695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
DNA methylation (DNAm) overwrites information about multiple extrinsic factors on the genome. Age is one of these factors. Age causes characteristic DNAm changes that are thought to be not only major drivers of normal ageing but also precursors to diseases, cancer being one of these. Although there is still much to learn about the relationship between ageing, age-related diseases and DNAm, we now know how to interpret some of the effects caused by age in the form of changes in methylation marks at specific loci. In fact, these changes form the basis of the so called "epigenetic clocks", which translate the genomic methylation profile into an "epigenetic age". Epigenetic age does not only estimate chronological age but can also predict the risk of chronic diseases and mortality. Epigenetic age is believed to be one of the most accurate metrics of biological age. Initial evidence has recently been gathered pointing to the possibility that the rate of epigenetic ageing can be slowed down or even reversed. In this review, we discuss some of the most relevant advances in this field. Expected outcome is that this approach can provide insights into how to preserve health and reduce the impact of ageing diseases in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Reale
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy.
| | - Stefano Tagliatesta
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology "Charles Darwin", Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy.
| | - Giuseppe Zardo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy.
| | - Michele Zampieri
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy.
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18
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Jeremian R, Bani-Fatemi A, Strauss JS, Tasmim S, Dada O, Graff-Guerrero A, Gerretsen P, De Luca V. Investigation of accelerated epigenetic aging in individuals suffering from schizophrenia in the context of lifetime suicide attempt. Schizophr Res 2022; 243:222-224. [PMID: 31174921 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2019.05.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2018] [Revised: 05/08/2019] [Accepted: 05/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Richie Jeremian
- Molecular Brain Science Department, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ali Bani-Fatemi
- Molecular Brain Science Department, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - John S Strauss
- Molecular Brain Science Department, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Samia Tasmim
- Molecular Brain Science Department, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Oluwagbenga Dada
- Molecular Brain Science Department, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ariel Graff-Guerrero
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Geriatric Mental Health Program, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Philip Gerretsen
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Geriatric Mental Health Program, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Vincenzo De Luca
- Molecular Brain Science Department, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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19
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Lim S, Nzegwu D, Wright ML. The Impact of Psychosocial Stress from Life Trauma and Racial Discrimination on Epigenetic Aging-A Systematic Review. Biol Res Nurs 2022; 24:202-215. [PMID: 35102751 PMCID: PMC9096197 DOI: 10.1177/10998004211060561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this review was to explore the effects of psychosocial stress from life trauma and racial discrimination on epigenetic aging. DESIGN A systematic review of the last 10 years was conducted using four databases: PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, PsychInfo, and CINAHL. METHODS Articles were identified using the following terms: ([(DNA methylation) AND (epigenetic clock)] OR [(DNA methylation) AND (epigenetic age)]) AND (discrimination OR trauma)). Original research articles published in English measuring life trauma, post-traumatic stress, experience of discrimination, and epigenetic clocks or aging were analyzed using PRISMA guidelines. RESULTS Ten articles met inclusion criteria. The study sample size ranged from 96 to 1163 and most study populations had a mean age under 50 and included predominantly White male participants. One study identified accelerated epigenetic aging associated with discrimination using Hannum's clock; 33% of studies evaluating life trauma reported epigenetic age acceleration using GrimAge or Horvath's clock; 25% of studies evaluating childhood trauma reported epigenetic age acceleration using Horvath's clock; and 71% of studies assessing post-traumatic stress observed epigenetic age acceleration with all clocks, while one study reported deceleration using Horvath's clock. CONCLUSIONS The experiences of life trauma, post-traumatic stress, and discrimination may be associated with accelerated epigenetic aging that can be consistently detected using different epigenetic clocks. Additional studies inclusive of diverse populations and other psychosocial stressors are needed. RELEVANCE Nursing scholars and other health scientists who utilize epigenetic age acceleration to assess health risks may need to consider including psychosocial stressors in their studies as covariates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sungju Lim
- 16168School of Nursing, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Dumebi Nzegwu
- Department of Health and Society, 171769College of Liberal Arts, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Michelle L Wright
- 16168School of Nursing, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA.,Department of Women's Health, 377659Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
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Salminen LE, Tubi MA, Bright J, Thomopoulos SI, Wieand A, Thompson PM. Sex is a defining feature of neuroimaging phenotypes in major brain disorders. Hum Brain Mapp 2022; 43:500-542. [PMID: 33949018 PMCID: PMC8805690 DOI: 10.1002/hbm.25438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Revised: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Sex is a biological variable that contributes to individual variability in brain structure and behavior. Neuroimaging studies of population-based samples have identified normative differences in brain structure between males and females, many of which are exacerbated in psychiatric and neurological conditions. Still, sex differences in MRI outcomes are understudied, particularly in clinical samples with known sex differences in disease risk, prevalence, and expression of clinical symptoms. Here we review the existing literature on sex differences in adult brain structure in normative samples and in 14 distinct psychiatric and neurological disorders. We discuss commonalities and sources of variance in study designs, analysis procedures, disease subtype effects, and the impact of these factors on MRI interpretation. Lastly, we identify key problems in the neuroimaging literature on sex differences and offer potential recommendations to address current barriers and optimize rigor and reproducibility. In particular, we emphasize the importance of large-scale neuroimaging initiatives such as the Enhancing NeuroImaging Genetics through Meta-Analyses consortium, the UK Biobank, Human Connectome Project, and others to provide unprecedented power to evaluate sex-specific phenotypes in major brain diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren E. Salminen
- Imaging Genetics CenterMark and Mary Stevens Neuroimaging and Informatics Institute, Keck School of Medicine of USCMarina del ReyCaliforniaUSA
| | - Meral A. Tubi
- Imaging Genetics CenterMark and Mary Stevens Neuroimaging and Informatics Institute, Keck School of Medicine of USCMarina del ReyCaliforniaUSA
| | - Joanna Bright
- Imaging Genetics CenterMark and Mary Stevens Neuroimaging and Informatics Institute, Keck School of Medicine of USCMarina del ReyCaliforniaUSA
| | - Sophia I. Thomopoulos
- Imaging Genetics CenterMark and Mary Stevens Neuroimaging and Informatics Institute, Keck School of Medicine of USCMarina del ReyCaliforniaUSA
| | - Alyssa Wieand
- Imaging Genetics CenterMark and Mary Stevens Neuroimaging and Informatics Institute, Keck School of Medicine of USCMarina del ReyCaliforniaUSA
| | - Paul M. Thompson
- Imaging Genetics CenterMark and Mary Stevens Neuroimaging and Informatics Institute, Keck School of Medicine of USCMarina del ReyCaliforniaUSA
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21
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Abstract
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a complex mental disorder afflicting approximately 7% of the population. The diverse number of traumatic events and the wide array of symptom combinations leading to PTSD diagnosis contribute substantial heterogeneity to studies of the disorder. Genomic and complimentary-omic investigations have rapidly increased our understanding of the heritable risk for PTSD. In this review, we emphasize the contributions of genome-wide association, epigenome-wide association, transcriptomic, and neuroimaging studies to our understanding of PTSD etiology. We also discuss the shared risk between PTSD and other complex traits derived from studies of causal inference, co-expression, and brain morphological similarities. The investigations completed so far converge on stark contrasts in PTSD risk between sexes, partially attributed to sex-specific prevalence of traumatic experiences with high conditional risk of PTSD. To further understand PTSD biology, future studies should focus on detecting risk for PTSD while accounting for substantial cohort-level heterogeneity (e.g. civilian v. combat-exposed PTSD cases or PTSD risk among cases exposed to specific traumas), expanding ancestral diversity among study cohorts, and remaining cognizant of how these data influence social stigma associated with certain traumatic events among underrepresented minorities and/or high-risk populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renato Polimanti
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, West Haven, CT, USA
- Veterans Administration Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA
| | - Frank R Wendt
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, West Haven, CT, USA
- Veterans Administration Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA
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22
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Yang R, Wu GWY, Verhoeven JE, Gautam A, Reus VI, Kang JI, Flory JD, Abu-Amara D, Hood L, Doyle FJ, Yehuda R, Marmar CR, Jett M, Hammamieh R, Mellon SH, Wolkowitz OM. A DNA methylation clock associated with age-related illnesses and mortality is accelerated in men with combat PTSD. Mol Psychiatry 2021; 26:4999-5009. [PMID: 32382136 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-020-0755-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2020] [Revised: 03/20/2020] [Accepted: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
DNA methylation patterns at specific cytosine-phosphate-guanine (CpG) sites predictably change with age and can be used to derive "epigenetic age", an indicator of biological age, as opposed to merely chronological age. A relatively new estimator, called "DNAm GrimAge", is notable for its superior predictive ability in older populations regarding numerous age-related metrics like time-to-death, time-to-coronary heart disease, and time-to-cancer. PTSD is associated with premature mortality and frequently has comorbid physical illnesses suggestive of accelerated biological aging. This is the first study to assess DNAm GrimAge in PTSD patients. We investigated the acceleration of GrimAge relative to chronological age, denoted "AgeAccelGrim" in combat trauma-exposed male veterans with and without PTSD using cross-sectional and longitudinal data from two independent well-characterized veteran cohorts. In both cohorts, AgeAccelGrim was significantly higher in the PTSD group compared to the control group (N = 162, 1.26 vs -0.57, p = 0.001 and N = 53, 0.93 vs -1.60 Years, p = 0.008), suggesting accelerated biological aging in both cohorts with PTSD. In 3-year follow-up study of individuals initially diagnosed with PTSD (N = 26), changes in PTSD symptom severity were correlated with AgeAccelGrim changes (r = 0.39, p = 0.049). In addition, the loss of CD28 cell surface markers on CD8 + T cells, an indicator of T-cell senescence/exhaustion that is associated with biological aging, was positively correlated with AgeAccelGrim, suggesting an immunological contribution to the accelerated biological aging. Overall, our findings delineate cellular correlates of biological aging in combat-related PTSD, which may help explain the increased medical morbidity and mortality seen in this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruoting Yang
- Medical Readiness Systems Biology, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, MD, USA.
| | - Gwyneth W Y Wu
- Weill Institute for Neurosciences and Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Francisco (UCSF) School of Medicine, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Josine E Verhoeven
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Aarti Gautam
- Medical Readiness Systems Biology, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Victor I Reus
- Weill Institute for Neurosciences and Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Francisco (UCSF) School of Medicine, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jee In Kang
- Institute of Behavioral Science in Medicine & Department of Psychiatry, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Janine D Flory
- James J Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA.,Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Duna Abu-Amara
- Department of Psychiatry, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Leroy Hood
- Institute for Systems Biology, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Francis J Doyle
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering & Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Rachel Yehuda
- James J Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA.,Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Charles R Marmar
- Department of Psychiatry, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Marti Jett
- Medical Readiness Systems Biology, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Rasha Hammamieh
- Medical Readiness Systems Biology, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Synthia H Mellon
- Department of OB-GYN and Reproductive Sciences, UCSF School of Medicine, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Owen M Wolkowitz
- Weill Institute for Neurosciences and Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Francisco (UCSF) School of Medicine, San Francisco, CA, USA
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23
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Gene expression correlates of advanced epigenetic age and psychopathology in postmortem cortical tissue. Neurobiol Stress 2021; 15:100371. [PMID: 34458511 PMCID: PMC8377489 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynstr.2021.100371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Psychiatric stress has been associated with accelerated epigenetic aging (i.e., when estimates of cellular age based on DNA methylation exceed chronological age) in both blood and brain tissue. Little is known about the downstream biological effects of accelerated epigenetic age on gene expression. In this study we examined associations between DNA methylation-derived estimates of cellular age that range from decelerated to accelerated relative to chronological age (“DNAm age residuals”) and transcriptome-wide gene expression. This was examined using tissue from three post-mortem cortical regions (ventromedial and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and motor cortex, n = 97) from the VA National PTSD Brain Bank. In addition, we examined how posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and alcohol-use disorders (AUD) moderated the association between DNAm age residuals and gene expression. Transcriptome-wide results across brain regions, psychiatric diagnoses, and cohorts (full sample and male and female subsets) revealed experiment-wide differential expression of 11 genes in association with PTSD or AUD in interaction with DNAm age residuals. This included the inflammation-related genes IL1B, RCOR2, and GCNT1. Candidate gene class analyses and gene network enrichment analyses further supported differential expression of inflammation/immune gene networks as well as glucocorticoid, circadian, and oxidative stress-related genes. Gene co-expression network modules suggested enrichment of myelination related processes and oligodendrocyte enrichment in association with DNAm age residuals in the presence of psychopathology. Collectively, results suggest that psychiatric stress accentuates the association between advanced epigenetic age and expression of inflammation genes in the brain. This highlights the role of inflammatory processes in the pathophysiology of accelerated cellular aging and suggests that inflammatory pathways may link accelerated cellular aging to premature disease onset and neurodegeneration, particularly in stressed populations. This suggests that anti-inflammatory interventions may be an important direction to pursue in evaluating ways to prevent or delay cellular aging and increase resilience to diseases of aging.
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24
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Higgins-Chen AT, Thrush KL, Levine ME. Aging biomarkers and the brain. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2021; 116:180-193. [PMID: 33509689 PMCID: PMC8292153 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2021.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Revised: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Quantifying biological aging is critical for understanding why aging is the primary driver of morbidity and mortality and for assessing novel therapies to counter pathological aging. In the past decade, many biomarkers relevant to brain aging have been developed using various data types and modeling techniques. Aging involves numerous interconnected processes, and thus many complementary biomarkers are needed, each capturing a different slice of aging biology. Here we present a hierarchical framework highlighting how these biomarkers are related to each other and the underlying biological processes. We review those measures most studied in the context of brain aging: epigenetic clocks, proteomic clocks, and neuroimaging age predictors. Many studies have linked these biomarkers to cognition, mental health, brain structure, and pathology during aging. We also delve into the challenges and complexities in interpreting these biomarkers and suggest areas for further innovation. Ultimately, a robust mechanistic understanding of these biomarkers will be needed to effectively intervene in the aging process to prevent and treat age-related disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert T Higgins-Chen
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, 300 George St, Suite 901, New Haven, CT 06511, USA.
| | - Kyra L Thrush
- Program in Computational Biology and Bioinformatics, Yale University, 300 George St, Suite 501, New Haven, CT 06511, USA.
| | - Morgan E Levine
- Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, 310 Cedar Street, Suite LH 315A, New Haven, CT 06520, USA.
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25
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Maternal psychosocial risk factors and child gestational epigenetic age in a South African birth cohort study. Transl Psychiatry 2021; 11:358. [PMID: 34215722 PMCID: PMC8253754 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-021-01434-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2018] [Revised: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Accelerated epigenetic aging relative to chronological age has been found to be associated with higher risk of mortality in adults. However, little is known about whether and how in utero exposures might shape child gestational epigenetic age (EA) at birth. We aimed to explore associations between maternal psychosocial risk factors and deviation in child gestational EA at birth (i.e., greater or lower EA relative to chronological age) in a South African birth cohort study-the Drakenstein Child Health Study. Maternal psychosocial risk factors included trauma/stressor exposure; posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD); depression; psychological distress; and alcohol/tobacco use. Child gestational EA at birth was calculated using an epigenetic clock previously devised for neonates; and gestational EA deviation was calculated as the residuals of the linear model between EA and chronological gestational age. Bivariate linear regression was then used to explore unadjusted associations between maternal/child risk factors and child gestational EA residuals at birth. Thereafter, a multivariable regression method was used to determine adjusted associations. Data from 271 maternal-child dyads were included in the current analysis. In the multivariable regression model, maternal PTSD was significantly and negatively associated with child gestational EA residuals at birth (β = -1.95; p = 0.018), controlling for study site, sex of the child, head circumference at birth, birthweight, mode of delivery, maternal estimated household income, body mass index (BMI) at enrolment, HIV status, anaemia, psychological distress, and prenatal tobacco or alcohol use. Given the novelty of this preliminary finding, and its potential translational relevance, further studies to delineate underlying biological pathways and to explore clinical implications of EA deviation are warranted.
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26
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Kuan PF, Ren X, Clouston S, Yang X, Jonas K, Kotov R, Bromet E, Luft BJ. PTSD is associated with accelerated transcriptional aging in World Trade Center responders. Transl Psychiatry 2021; 11:311. [PMID: 34031357 PMCID: PMC8144188 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-021-01437-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Revised: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is associated with shortened lifespan and healthspan, which suggests accelerated aging. Emerging evidence suggests that methylation age may be accelerated in PTSD. It is important to examine whether transcriptional age is also accelerated because transcriptome is highly dynamic, associated with age-related outcomes, and may offer greater insight into the premature aging in PTSD. This study is the first reported investigation of the relationship between transcriptional age and PTSD. Using RNA-Seq data from our previous study on 324 World Trade Center responders (201 never had PTSD, 81 with current PTSD, and 42 with past PTSD), as well as a transcriptional age calculator (RNAAgeCalc) recently developed by our group, we found that responders with current PTSD, compared with responders without a PTSD diagnosis, showed accelerated transcriptional aging (p = 0.0077) after adjustment for chronological age and race. We compared our results to the epigenetic aging results computed from several epigenetic clock calculators on matching DNA methylation data. GrimAge methylation age acceleration was also associated with PTSD diagnosis (p = 0.0097), and the results remained significant after adjustment for the proportions of immune cell types. PhenoAge, Hannum, and Horvath methylation age acceleration were not reliably related to PTSD. Both epigenetic and transcriptional aging may provide biological insights into the mechanisms underpinning aging in PTSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei-Fen Kuan
- grid.36425.360000 0001 2216 9681Department of Applied Mathematics and Statistics, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY USA
| | - Xu Ren
- grid.36425.360000 0001 2216 9681Department of Applied Mathematics and Statistics, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY USA
| | - Sean Clouston
- Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, Stony Book University, Stony Brook, NY USA
| | - Xiaohua Yang
- grid.36425.360000 0001 2216 9681Department of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY USA
| | - Katherine Jonas
- Department of Psychiatry, Stony Book University, Stony Brook, NY USA
| | - Roman Kotov
- Department of Psychiatry, Stony Book University, Stony Brook, NY USA
| | - Evelyn Bromet
- Department of Psychiatry, Stony Book University, Stony Brook, NY USA
| | - Benjamin J. Luft
- grid.36425.360000 0001 2216 9681Department of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY USA
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27
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Rackova L, Mach M, Brnoliakova Z. An update in toxicology of ageing. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2021; 84:103611. [PMID: 33581363 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2021.103611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Revised: 01/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The field of ageing research has been rapidly advancing in recent decades and it had provided insight into the complexity of ageing phenomenon. However, as the organism-environment interaction appears to significantly affect the organismal pace of ageing, the systematic approach for gerontogenic risk assessment of environmental factors has yet to be established. This puts demand on development of effective biomarker of ageing, as a relevant tool to quantify effects of gerontogenic exposures, contingent on multidisciplinary research approach. Here we review the current knowledge regarding the main endogenous gerontogenic pathways involved in acceleration of ageing through environmental exposures. These include inflammatory and oxidative stress-triggered processes, dysregulation of maintenance of cellular anabolism and catabolism and loss of protein homeostasis. The most effective biomarkers showing specificity and relevancy to ageing phenotypes are summarized, as well. The crucial part of this review was dedicated to the comprehensive overview of environmental gerontogens including various types of radiation, certain types of pesticides, heavy metals, drugs and addictive substances, unhealthy dietary patterns, and sedentary life as well as psychosocial stress. The reported effects in vitro and in vivo of both recognized and potential gerontogens are described with respect to the up-to-date knowledge in geroscience. Finally, hormetic and ageing decelerating effects of environmental factors are briefly discussed, as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Rackova
- Institute of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, Centre of Experimental Medicine, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dubravska cesta 9, 841 04 Bratislava, Slovakia.
| | - Mojmir Mach
- Institute of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, Centre of Experimental Medicine, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dubravska cesta 9, 841 04 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Zuzana Brnoliakova
- Institute of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, Centre of Experimental Medicine, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dubravska cesta 9, 841 04 Bratislava, Slovakia
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28
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Ponomareva OY, Ressler KJ. Genomic factors underlying sex differences in trauma-related disorders. Neurobiol Stress 2021; 14:100330. [PMID: 33997155 PMCID: PMC8102626 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynstr.2021.100330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Revised: 04/11/2021] [Accepted: 04/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a devastating illness with treatment that is effective in only approximately half of the population. This limited rate of response highlights the necessity for research into underlying individual biological mechanisms that mediate development and progression of this disease, allowing for identification of patient-specific treatments. PTSD has clear sex differences in both risk and symptom patterns. Thus, one approach is to characterize trauma-related changes between men and women who exhibit differences in treatment efficacy and response to trauma. Recent technological advances in sequencing have identified several genomic loci and transcriptional changes that are associated with post-trauma symptomatology. However, although the diagnosis of PTSD is more prevalent in women, the genetic factors underlying sex differences remain poorly understood. Here, we review recent work that highlights current understanding and limitations in the field of sex differences in PTSD and related symptomatology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Y Ponomareva
- Neuropsychiatry Translational Research Fellowship Program, Boston VA Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA.,McLean Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Belmont, MA, USA
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29
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Clausing ES, Binder AM, Non AL. Epigenetic age associates with psychosocial stress and resilience in children of Latinx immigrants. Epigenomics 2021; 13:1677-1699. [PMID: 33749330 DOI: 10.2217/epi-2019-0343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: To investigate associations of psychosocial stressors and resilience factors with DNA methylation age in saliva of Latinx children of immigrants before and after the 2016 presidential election (2015-2018). Materials & methods: We compared psychosocial exposures with four distinct measures of epigenetic age assessed in saliva of children (6-13 years, n = 71 pre-election; n = 35 post-election). Exploratory genome-wide analyses were also conducted. Results: We found distinct associations across epigenetic clocks and time points: for example, greater maternal social status pre-election and fear of parent deportation post-election both associated with decreased Hannum Age (p ≤ 0.01). Conclusion: Though limited in size, our unique study design provides novel hypotheses regarding how the social environment may influence epigenetic aging and genome-wide methylation, potentially contributing to racial/ethnic health inequalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth S Clausing
- Department of Anthropology at The University of California, San Diego, 92093 CA, USA
| | - Alexandra M Binder
- Department of Epidemiology at The University of California, Los Angeles, 90095 CA, USA
| | - Amy L Non
- Department of Anthropology at The University of California, San Diego, 92093 CA, USA
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30
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Wolf EJ, Chen CD, Zhao X, Zhou Z, Morrison FG, Daskalakis NP, Stone A, Schichman S, Grenier JG, Fein-Schaffer D, Huber BR, Abraham CR, Miller MW, Logue MW. Klotho, PTSD, and advanced epigenetic age in cortical tissue. Neuropsychopharmacology 2021; 46:721-730. [PMID: 33096543 PMCID: PMC8027437 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-020-00884-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2020] [Revised: 09/12/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
This study examined the klotho (KL) longevity gene polymorphism rs9315202 and psychopathology, including posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and alcohol-use disorders, in association with advanced epigenetic age in three postmortem cortical tissue regions: dorsolateral and ventromedial prefrontal cortices and motor cortex. Using data from the VA National PTSD Brain Bank (n = 117), we found that rs9315202 interacted with PTSD to predict advanced epigenetic age in motor cortex among the subset of relatively older (>=45 years), white non-Hispanic decedents (corrected p = 0.014, n = 42). An evaluation of 211 additional common KL variants revealed that only variants in linkage disequilibrium with rs9315202 showed similarly high levels of significance. Alcohol abuse was nominally associated with advanced epigenetic age in motor cortex (p = 0.039, n = 114). The rs9315202 SNP interacted with PTSD to predict decreased KL expression via DNAm age residuals in motor cortex among older white non-Hispanics decedents (indirect β = -0.198, p = 0.027). Finally, in dual-luciferase enhancer reporter system experiments, we found that inserting the minor allele of rs9315202 in a human kidney cell line HK-2 genomic DNA resulted in a change in KL transcriptional activities, likely operating via long noncoding RNA in this region. This was the first study to examine multiple forms of psychopathology in association with advanced DNA methylation age across several brain regions, to extend work concerning the association between rs9315202 and advanced epigenetic to brain tissue, and to identify the effects of rs9315202 on KL gene expression. KL augmentation holds promise as a therapeutic intervention to slow the pace of cellular aging, disease onset, and neuropathology, particularly in older, stressed populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika J Wolf
- National Center for PTSD at VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Ci-Di Chen
- Department of Biochemistry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Xiang Zhao
- National Center for PTSD at VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Zhenwei Zhou
- National Center for PTSD at VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Biostatistics, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Filomene G Morrison
- National Center for PTSD at VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Annjanette Stone
- Pharmacogenomics Analysis Laboratory, Research Service, Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Steven Schichman
- Pharmacogenomics Analysis Laboratory, Research Service, Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Jaclyn Garza Grenier
- Brigham and Women's Hospital, Channing Division of Network Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Dana Fein-Schaffer
- National Center for PTSD at VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Bertrand R Huber
- Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Neurology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Carmela R Abraham
- Department of Biochemistry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Mark W Miller
- National Center for PTSD at VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Mark W Logue
- National Center for PTSD at VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Biostatistics, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Biomedical Genetics, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
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31
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Wang C, Ni W, Yao Y, Just A, Heiss J, Wei Y, Gao X, Coull BA, Kosheleva A, Baccarelli AA, Peters A, Schwartz JD. DNA methylation-based biomarkers of age acceleration and all-cause death, myocardial infarction, stroke, and cancer in two cohorts: The NAS, and KORA F4. EBioMedicine 2020; 63:103151. [PMID: 33279859 PMCID: PMC7724153 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2020.103151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Revised: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background DNA methylation (DNAm) may play a role in age-related outcomes. It is not yet known which DNAm-based biomarkers of age acceleration (BoAA) has the strongest association with age-related endpoints. Methods We collected the blood samples from two independent cohorts: the Normative Ageing Study, and the Cooperative Health Research in the Region of Augsburg cohort. We measured epigenome-wide DNAm level, and generated five DNAm BoAA at baseline. We used Cox proportional hazards model to analyze the relationships between BoAA and all-cause death. We applied the Fine and Gray competing risk model to estimate the risk of BoAA on myocardial infarction (MI), stroke, and cancer, accounting for death of other reasons as the competing risks. We used random-effects meta-analyses to pool the individual results, with adjustment for multiple testing. Findings The mean chronological ages in the two cohorts were 74, and 61, respectively. Baseline GrimAgeAccel, and DNAm-related mortality risk score (DNAmRS) both had strong associations with all-cause death, MI, and stroke, independent from chronological age. For example, a one standard deviation (SD) increment in GrimAgeAccel was significantly associated with increased risk of all-cause death [hazard ratio (HR): 2.01; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.15, 3.50], higher risk of MI (HR: 1.44; 95% CI, 1.16, 1.79), and elevated risk of stroke (HR: 1.42; 95% CI, 1.06, 1.91). There were no associations between any BoAA and cancer. Interpretation From the public health perspective, GrimAgeAccel is the most useful tool for identifying at-risk elderly, and evaluating the efficacy of anti-aging interventions. Funding National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences of U.S., Harvard Chan-NIEHS Center for Environmental Health, German Federal Ministry of Education and Research, and the State of Bavaria in Germany.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cuicui Wang
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, 401 Park Drive, West of Landmark Center, Boston, MA 02215, United States.
| | - Wenli Ni
- Institute of Epidemiology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Yueli Yao
- Institute of Epidemiology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Allan Just
- Department of Environmental Medicine, and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
| | - Jonathan Heiss
- Department of Environmental Medicine, and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
| | - Yaguang Wei
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, 401 Park Drive, West of Landmark Center, Boston, MA 02215, United States
| | - Xu Gao
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Brent A Coull
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, 401 Park Drive, West of Landmark Center, Boston, MA 02215, United States; Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Anna Kosheleva
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, 401 Park Drive, West of Landmark Center, Boston, MA 02215, United States
| | - Andrea A Baccarelli
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Annette Peters
- Institute of Epidemiology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany; Institute of Medical Information Science, Biometry, and Epidemiology, Ludwig Maximilians University, Munich, Germany
| | - Joel D Schwartz
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, 401 Park Drive, West of Landmark Center, Boston, MA 02215, United States
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32
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Ryan J, Wrigglesworth J, Loong J, Fransquet PD, Woods RL. A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Environmental, Lifestyle, and Health Factors Associated With DNA Methylation Age. J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci 2020; 75:481-494. [PMID: 31001624 DOI: 10.1093/gerona/glz099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
DNA methylation (DNAm) algorithms of biological age provide a robust estimate of an individual's chronological age and can predict their risk of age-related disease and mortality. This study reviewed the evidence that environmental, lifestyle and health factors are associated with the Horvath and Hannum epigenetic clocks. A systematic search identified 61 studies. Chronological age was correlated with DNAm age in blood (median .83, range .13-.99). In a meta-analysis body mass index (BMI) was associated with increased DNAm age (Hannum β: 0.07, 95% CI 0.04 to 0.10; Horvath β: 0.06, 95% CI 0.02 to 0.10), but there was no association with smoking (Hannum β: 0.12, 95% CI -0.50 to 0.73; Horvath β:0.18, 95% CI -0.10 to 0.46). DNAm age was positively associated with frailty (three studies, n = 3,093), and education was negatively associated with the Hannum estimate of DNAm age specifically (four studies, n = 13,955). For most other exposures, findings were too inconsistent to draw conclusions. In conclusion, BMI was positively associated with biological aging measured using DNAm, with some evidence that frailty also increased aging. More research is needed to provide conclusive evidence regarding other exposures. This field of research has the potential to provide further insights into how to promote slower biological aging and ultimately prolong healthy life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanne Ryan
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,INSERM, Univ Montpellier, Neuropsychiatry, Epidemiological and Clinical Research, Montpellier, France
| | - Jo Wrigglesworth
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jun Loong
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Peter D Fransquet
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Robyn L Woods
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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33
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Coimbra BM, Yeh M, D'Elia AT, Maciel MR, Carvalho CM, Milani AC, Mozzambani A, Juruena M, Belangero SI, Jackowski AP, Poyares D, Mello AF, Mello MF. Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Neuroprogression in Women Following Sexual Assault: Protocol for a Randomized Clinical Trial Evaluating Allostatic Load and Aging Process Acceleration. JMIR Res Protoc 2020; 9:e19162. [PMID: 33206061 PMCID: PMC7710442 DOI: 10.2196/19162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Revised: 08/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a prevalent, chronic, and severe disorder related to traumatic events. Women are disproportionately affected by PTSD than men and are more at risk in the occurrence of sexual assault victimization. Estimates suggest that 50% of women develop PTSD following sexual assault and successful clinical management can be challenging. Growing evidence has implicated neural, immune, and endocrine alterations underpinning PTSD, but only few studies have assessed the evolution of acute PTSD in women. OBJECTIVE This study aims to measure whether the onset of PTSD is associated with accelerated aging in women following sexual assault. We hypothesize that the increase of allostatic load caused by PTSD leads to neuroprogression. We will implement a randomized clinical trial to compare responses to treatment with either interpersonal psychotherapy adapted for PTSD (IPT-PTSD) or the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor sertraline. METHODS We will include women between 18 and 45 years of age, who experienced sexual assault from 1 to 6 months before the initial evaluation, and present with a Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fifth edition (DSM-5) diagnosis of PTSD. Baseline evaluation will comprise clinical and psychometric assessments, structural and functional magnetic resonance imaging, neuropsychological testing, polysomnography, evaluation of immune and endocrine parameters, and genetic analyses. Age-matched female healthy controls will be included and subjected to the same evaluation. Patients will be randomized for treatment in 1 of the 2 arms of the study for 14 weeks; follow-up will continue until 1 year after inclusion via treatment as usual. The researchers will collect clinical and laboratory data during periodic clinical assessments up to 1-year follow-up. RESULTS Data collection started in early 2016 and will be completed by the end of the first semester of 2020. Analyses will be performed soon afterward, followed by the elaboration of several articles. Articles will be submitted in early 2021. This research project has obtained a grant from the Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP 2014/12559-5). CONCLUSIONS We expect to provide insight into the consequences of recent sexual assault exposure in women by investigating the degree of neuroprogression developing from an early stage of PTSD. We also expect to provide important evidence on the efficacy of a non-exposure psychotherapy (IPT-PTSD) to mitigate PTSD symptoms in recently sexually assaulted women. Further, we aim to obtain evidence on how treatment outcomes are associated with neuroprogression measures. TRIAL REGISTRATION Brazilian Clinical Trials Registry RBR-3z474z; http://www.ensaiosclinicos.gov.br/rg/RBR-3z474z/. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/19162.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Messina Coimbra
- Department of Psychiatry, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Program for Research and Care on Violence and PTSD, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mary Yeh
- Department of Psychiatry, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Program for Research and Care on Violence and PTSD, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ana Teresa D'Elia
- Department of Psychiatry, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Program for Research and Care on Violence and PTSD, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mariana Rangel Maciel
- Department of Psychiatry, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Program for Research and Care on Violence and PTSD, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Carolina Muniz Carvalho
- Department of Psychiatry, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Morphology and Genetics, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Laboratory of Integrative Neuroscience, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ana Carolina Milani
- Department of Psychiatry, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Program for Research and Care on Violence and PTSD, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Adriana Mozzambani
- Department of Psychiatry, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Program for Research and Care on Violence and PTSD, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mario Juruena
- Centre for Affective Disorders, Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Biomedical Research Centre, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust and King's College, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sintia Iole Belangero
- Department of Psychiatry, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Morphology and Genetics, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Laboratory of Integrative Neuroscience, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Andrea Parolin Jackowski
- Department of Psychiatry, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Laboratory of Integrative Neuroscience, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Dalva Poyares
- Department of Psychobiology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Andrea Feijo Mello
- Department of Psychiatry, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Program for Research and Care on Violence and PTSD, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marcelo Feijo Mello
- Department of Psychiatry, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Program for Research and Care on Violence and PTSD, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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He X, Liu J, Liu B, Shi J. The use of DNA methylation clock in aging research. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2020; 246:436-446. [PMID: 33175612 DOI: 10.1177/1535370220968802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
One of the key characteristics of aging is a progressive loss of physiological integrity, which weakens bodily functions and increases the risk of death. A robust biomarker is important for the assessment of biological age, the rate of aging, and a person's health status. DNA methylation clocks, novel biomarkers of aging, are composed of a group of cytosine-phosphate-guanine dinucleotides, the DNA methylation status of which can be used to accurately measure subjective age. These clocks are considered accurate biomarkers of chronological age for humans and other vertebrates. Numerous studies have demonstrated these clocks to quantify the rate of biological aging and the effects of longevity and anti-aging interventions. In this review, we describe the purpose and use of DNA methylation clocks in aging research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi He
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, 66367Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563003, China
| | - Jiaojiao Liu
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, 66367Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563003, China
| | - Bo Liu
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, 66367Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563003, China
| | - Jingshan Shi
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, 66367Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563003, China
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Katrinli S, Stevens J, Wani AH, Lori A, Kilaru V, van Rooij SJH, Hinrichs R, Powers A, Gillespie CF, Michopoulos V, Gautam A, Jett M, Hammamieh R, Yang R, Wildman D, Qu A, Koenen K, Aiello AE, Jovanovic T, Uddin M, Ressler KJ, Smith AK. Evaluating the impact of trauma and PTSD on epigenetic prediction of lifespan and neural integrity. Neuropsychopharmacology 2020; 45:1609-1616. [PMID: 32380512 PMCID: PMC7421899 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-020-0700-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2020] [Revised: 04/17/2020] [Accepted: 04/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a debilitating disorder that develops in some people following trauma exposure. Trauma and PTSD have been associated with accelerated cellular aging. This study evaluated the effect of trauma and PTSD on accelerated GrimAge, an epigenetic predictor of lifespan, in traumatized civilians. This study included 218 individuals with current PTSD, 427 trauma-exposed controls without any history of PTSD and 209 subjects with lifetime PTSD history who are not categorized as current PTSD cases. The Traumatic Events Inventory (TEI) and Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale (CAPS) were used to measure lifetime trauma burden and PTSD, respectively. DNA from whole blood was interrogated using the MethylationEPIC or HumanMethylation450 BeadChips. GrimAge estimates were calculated using the methylation age calculator. Cortical thickness of 69 female subjects was assessed by using T1-weighted structural MRI images. Associations between trauma exposure, PTSD, cortical thickness, and GrimAge acceleration were tested with multiple regression models. Lifetime trauma burden (p = 0.03), current PTSD (p = 0.02) and lifetime PTSD (p = 0.005) were associated with GrimAge acceleration, indicative of a shorter predicted lifespan. The association with lifetime PTSD was replicated in an independent cohort (p = 0.04). In the MRI sub sample, GrimAge acceleration also associated with cortical atrophy in the right lateral orbitofrontal cortex (padj = 0.03) and right posterior cingulate (padj = 0.04), brain areas associated with emotion-regulation and threat-regulation. Our findings suggest that lifetime trauma and PTSD may contribute to a higher epigenetic-based mortality risk. We also demonstrate a relationship between cortical atrophy in PTSD-relevant brain regions and shorter predicted lifespan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyma Katrinli
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Jennifer Stevens
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Agaz H Wani
- Genomics Program, College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Adriana Lori
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Varun Kilaru
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Sanne J H van Rooij
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Rebecca Hinrichs
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Abigail Powers
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Charles F Gillespie
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Vasiliki Michopoulos
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Aarti Gautam
- Integrative Systems Biology, US Army Center for Environmental Health Research, Fort Detrick, MD, USA
| | - Marti Jett
- Integrative Systems Biology, US Army Center for Environmental Health Research, Fort Detrick, MD, USA
| | - Rasha Hammamieh
- Integrative Systems Biology, US Army Center for Environmental Health Research, Fort Detrick, MD, USA
| | - Ruoting Yang
- Integrative Systems Biology, US Army Center for Environmental Health Research, Fort Detrick, MD, USA
- The Geneva Foundation, Fort Detrick, MD, USA
| | - Derek Wildman
- Genomics Program, College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Annie Qu
- Department of Statistics, University of Illinois, Champaign, IL, USA
| | - Karestan Koenen
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Psychiatric and Neurodevelopmental Genetics Unit (PNGU), Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Allison E Aiello
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Tanja Jovanovic
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Monica Uddin
- Genomics Program, College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Kerry J Ressler
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, McLean Hospital and Harvard Medical School and McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA
| | - Alicia K Smith
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.
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Koop BE, Reckert A, Becker J, Han Y, Wagner W, Ritz-Timme S. Epigenetic clocks may come out of rhythm-implications for the estimation of chronological age in forensic casework. Int J Legal Med 2020; 134:2215-2228. [PMID: 32661599 PMCID: PMC7578121 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-020-02375-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
There is a growing perception that DNA methylation may be influenced by exogenous and endogenous parameters. Knowledge of these factors is of great relevance for the interpretation of DNA-methylation data for the estimation of chronological age in forensic casework. We performed a literature review to identify parameters, which might be of relevance for the prediction of chronological age based on DNA methylation. The quality of age predictions might particularly be influenced by lifetime adversities (chronic stress, trauma/post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), violence, low socioeconomic status/education), cancer, obesity and related diseases, infectious diseases (especially HIV and Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections), sex, ethnicity and exposure to toxins (alcohol, smoking, air pollution, pesticides). Such factors may alter the DNA methylation pattern and may explain the partly high deviations between epigenetic age and chronological age in single cases (despite of low mean absolute deviations) that can also be observed with “epigenetic clocks” comprising a high number of CpG sites. So far, only few publications dealing with forensic age estimation address these confounding factors. Future research should focus on the identification of further relevant confounding factors and the development of models that are “robust” against the influence of such biological factors by systematic investigations under targeted inclusion of diverse and defined cohorts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Elisabeth Koop
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Düsseldorf, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany.
| | - Alexandra Reckert
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Düsseldorf, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Julia Becker
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Düsseldorf, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Yang Han
- Helmholtz-Institute for Biomedical Engineering, Stem Cell Biology and Cellular Engineering, RWTH Aachen Faculty of Medicine, Aachen, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Wagner
- Helmholtz-Institute for Biomedical Engineering, Stem Cell Biology and Cellular Engineering, RWTH Aachen Faculty of Medicine, Aachen, Germany
| | - Stefanie Ritz-Timme
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Düsseldorf, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
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Wolf EJ, Logue MW, Zhao X, Daskalakis NP, Morrison FG, Escarfulleri S, Stone A, Schichman SA, McGlinchey RE, Milberg WP, Chen C, Abraham CR, Miller MW. PTSD and the klotho longevity gene: Evaluation of longitudinal effects on inflammation via DNA methylation. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2020; 117:104656. [PMID: 32438247 PMCID: PMC7293549 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2020.104656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2019] [Revised: 03/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Longevity gene klotho (KL) is associated with age-related phenotypes including lifespan, cardiometabolic disorders, cognition, and brain morphology, in part, by conferring protection against inflammation. We hypothesized that the KL/inflammation association might be altered in the presence of psychiatric stress and operate via epigenetic pathways. We examined KL polymorphisms, and their interaction with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, in association with KL DNA methylation in blood. We further examined KL DNA methylation as a predictor of longitudinal changes in a peripheral biomarker of inflammation (C-reactive protein; CRP). METHODS The sample comprised 309 white non-Hispanic military veterans (93.5 % male; mean age: 32 years, range: 19-65; 30 % PTSD per structured diagnostic interview); 111 were reassessed approximately two years later. RESULTS Analyses revealed a methylation quantitative trait locus at rs9527025 (C370S, previously implicated in numerous studies of aging) in association with a Cytosine-phosphate-Guanine site (cg00129557; B = -.65, p = 1.29 X 10-20), located within a DNase hypersensitivity site in the body of KL. There was also a rs9527025 x PTSD severity interaction (B = .004, p = .035) on methylation at this locus such that the minor allele was associated with reduced cg00129557 methylation in individuals with few or no PTSD symptoms while this effect was attenuated in those with elevated levels of PTSD. Path models revealed that methylation at cg00129557 was inversely associated with CRP over time (B = -.14, p = .005), controlling for baseline CRP. There was also an indirect effect of rs9527025 X PTSD on subsequent CRP via cg00129557 methylation (indirect B = -.002, p = .033). CONCLUSIONS Results contribute to our understanding of the epigenetic correlates of inflammation in PTSD and suggest that KL methylation may be a mechanism by which KL genotype confers risk vs. resilience to accelerated aging in those experiencing traumatic stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika J. Wolf
- National Center for PTSD at VA Boston Healthcare System,Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine
| | - Mark W. Logue
- National Center for PTSD at VA Boston Healthcare System,Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine,Biomedical Genetics, Boston University School of Medicine
| | - Xiang Zhao
- National Center for PTSD at VA Boston Healthcare System,Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine
| | | | - Filomene G. Morrison
- National Center for PTSD at VA Boston Healthcare System,Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine
| | | | - Annjanette Stone
- Pharmacogenomics Analysis Laboratory, Research Service, Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System
| | - Steven A. Schichman
- Pharmacogenomics Analysis Laboratory, Research Service, Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System
| | - Regina E. McGlinchey
- Geriatric Research Educational and Clinical Center and Translational Research Center for TBI and Stress Disorders, VA Boston Healthcare System,Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School
| | - William P. Milberg
- Geriatric Research Educational and Clinical Center and Translational Research Center for TBI and Stress Disorders, VA Boston Healthcare System,Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School
| | - Cidi Chen
- Department of Biochemistry, Boston University School of Medicine
| | - Carmela R. Abraham
- Department of Biochemistry, Boston University School of Medicine,Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Boston University School of Medicine
| | - Mark W. Miller
- National Center for PTSD at VA Boston Healthcare System,Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine
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Understanding Mi'kmaq Women's Experiences Accessing Prenatal Care in Rural Nova Scotia. ANS Adv Nurs Sci 2020; 42:139-155. [PMID: 30531355 DOI: 10.1097/ans.0000000000000248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Indigenous women experience a higher incidence of maternal complications compared with non-Indigenous women. Despite this, little is known about access to prenatal care for Mi'kmaq women in Nova Scotia. The intent of this study was to gain a more comprehensive understanding of Mi'kmaq women's experiences accessing prenatal care. The findings from this study highlight key implications for nursing practice such as promoting the nurse's role in supporting and advocating for Mi'kmaq women's health and for providing culturally safe care. This research will highlight that access to prenatal care is a complex issue for some women.
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El Khoury LY, Gorrie-Stone T, Smart M, Hughes A, Bao Y, Andrayas A, Burrage J, Hannon E, Kumari M, Mill J, Schalkwyk LC. Systematic underestimation of the epigenetic clock and age acceleration in older subjects. Genome Biol 2019; 20:283. [PMID: 31847916 PMCID: PMC6915902 DOI: 10.1186/s13059-019-1810-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2018] [Accepted: 09/03/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The Horvath epigenetic clock is widely used. It predicts age quite well from 353 CpG sites in the DNA methylation profile in unknown samples and has been used to calculate “age acceleration” in various tissues and environments. Results The model systematically underestimates age in tissues from older people. This is seen in all examined tissues but most strongly in the cerebellum and is consistently observed in multiple datasets. Age acceleration is thus age-dependent, and this can lead to spurious associations. The current literature includes examples of association tests with age acceleration calculated in a wide variety of ways. Conclusions The concept of an epigenetic clock is compelling, but caution should be taken in interpreting associations with age acceleration. Association tests of age acceleration should include age as a covariate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louis Y El Khoury
- School of Life Sciences, University of Essex, Colchester, UK.,Present Address: Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | | | - Melissa Smart
- Institute for Social and Economic Research, University of Essex, Colchester, UK
| | - Amanda Hughes
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit - University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Yanchun Bao
- Institute for Social and Economic Research, University of Essex, Colchester, UK
| | | | - Joe Burrage
- Medical School, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Eilis Hannon
- Medical School, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Meena Kumari
- Institute for Social and Economic Research, University of Essex, Colchester, UK
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Clinical, epidemiological, and biological evidence raises the possibility that serious mental disorders (SMDs) are associated with accelerated biological aging. To the extent this is true; SMDs should not simply be considered in terms of mental illness or brain dysfunction, but also as 'whole body' and multisystem illnesses, or else as conditions with significant somatic concomitants. RECENT FINDINGS The concept of accelerated biological aging in SMDs is supported by reports of accelerated changes in certain biomarkers normally associated with the aging process. SUMMARY We define and discuss several proposed biological aging markers that have been examined in SMDs, we review the most recent findings, and we conclude with opinions regarding the merits and meanings of these markers, their usefulness in understanding and treating SMDs, and remaining questions and future directions in this area of research.
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Affiliation(s)
- F. Saverio Bersani
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Department of Psychiatry, UCSF Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) School of Medicine, San Francisco, USA
| | - Synthia H. Mellon
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) School of Medicine, San Francisco, USA
| | - Victor I. Reus
- Department of Psychiatry, UCSF Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) School of Medicine, San Francisco, USA
| | - Owen M. Wolkowitz
- Department of Psychiatry, UCSF Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) School of Medicine, San Francisco, USA
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The goddess who spins the thread of life: Klotho, psychiatric stress, and accelerated aging. Brain Behav Immun 2019; 80:193-203. [PMID: 30872092 PMCID: PMC6660403 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2019.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2018] [Revised: 02/27/2019] [Accepted: 03/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Longevity gene klotho (KL) is associated with age-related phenotypes but has not been evaluated against a direct human biomarker of cellular aging. We examined KL and psychiatric stress, including posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which is thought to potentiate accelerated aging, in association with biomarkers of cellular aging. METHODS The sample comprised 309 white, non-Hispanic genotyped veterans with measures of epigenetic age (DNA methylation age), telomere length (n = 252), inflammation (C-reactive protein), psychiatric symptoms, metabolic function, and white matter neural integrity (diffusion tensor imaging; n = 185). Genotyping and DNA methylation were obtained on epi/genome-wide beadchips. RESULTS In gene by environment analyses, two KL variants (rs9315202 and rs9563121) interacted with PTSD severity (peak corrected p = 0.044) and sleep disturbance (peak corrected p = 0.034) to predict advanced epigenetic age. KL variant, rs398655, interacted with self-reported pain in association with slowed epigenetic age (corrected p = 0.048). A well-studied protective variant, rs9527025, was associated with slowed epigenetic age (p = 0.046). The peak PTSD interaction term (with rs9315202) also predicted C-reactive protein (p = 0.049), and white matter microstructural integrity in two tracts (corrected ps = 0.005 - 0.035). This SNP evidenced a main effect with an index of metabolic syndrome severity (p = 0.015). Effects were generally accentuated in older subjects. CONCLUSIONS Rs9315202 predicted multiple biomarkers of cellular aging such that psychiatric stress was more strongly associated with cellular aging in those with the minor allele. KL genotype may contribute to a synchronized pathological aging response to stress and could be a therapeutic target to alter the pace of cellular aging.
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DNA Methylation Age-Environmental Influences, Health Impacts, and Its Role in Environmental Epidemiology. Curr Environ Health Rep 2019; 5:317-327. [PMID: 30047075 DOI: 10.1007/s40572-018-0203-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW DNA methylation-based aging biomarkers are valuable tools for evaluating the aging process from a molecular perspective. These epigenetic aging biomarkers can be evaluated across the lifespan and are tissue specific. This review examines the literature relating environmental exposures to DNA methylation-based aging biomarkers and also the literature evaluating these biomarkers as predictors of health outcomes. RECENT FINDINGS Multiple studies evaluated the association between air pollution and DNA methylation age and consistently observed that higher exposures are associated with elevated DNA methylation age. Psychosocial exposures, e.g., traumas and adolescent adversity, and infections are also associated with epigenetic aging. DNA methylation age has been repeatedly associated with mortality, cancer, and cognitive impairment. DNA methylation age is responsive to the environment and predictive of health outcomes. Studies are still needed to evaluate whether DNA methylation age acts as a mediator or modifier of environmental health effects and to understand the impact of factors such as race, gender, and genetics.
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Morrison FG, Logue MW, Guetta R, Maniates H, Stone A, Schichman SA, McGlinchey RE, Milberg WP, Miller MW, Wolf EJ. Investigation of bidirectional longitudinal associations between advanced epigenetic age and peripheral biomarkers of inflammation and metabolic syndrome. Aging (Albany NY) 2019; 11:3487-3504. [PMID: 31173577 PMCID: PMC6594822 DOI: 10.18632/aging.101992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2019] [Accepted: 05/20/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Epigenetic age estimations based on DNA methylation (DNAm) can predict human chronological age with a high level of accuracy. These DNAm age algorithms can also be used to index advanced cellular age, when estimated DNAm age exceeds chronological age. Advanced DNAm age has been associated with several diseases and metabolic and inflammatory pathology, but the causal direction of this association is unclear. The goal of this study was to examine potential bidirectional associations between advanced epigenetic age and metabolic and inflammatory markers over time in a longitudinal cohort of 179 veterans with a high prevalence of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) who were assessed over the course of two years. Analyses focused on two commonly investigated metrics of advanced DNAm age derived from the Horvath (developed across multiple tissue types) and Hannum (developed in whole blood) DNAm age algorithms. Results of cross-lagged panel models revealed that advanced Hannum DNAm age at Time 1 (T1) was associated with increased (i.e., accounting for T1 levels) metabolic syndrome (MetS) severity at Time 2 (T2; p = < 0.001). This association was specific to worsening lipid panels and indicators of abdominal obesity (p = 0.001). In contrast, no baseline measures of inflammation or metabolic pathology were associated with changes in advanced epigenetic age over time. No associations emerged between advanced Horvath DNAm age and any of the examined biological parameters. Results suggest that advanced epigenetic age, when measured using an algorithm developed in whole blood, may be a prognostic marker of pathological metabolic processes. This carries implications for understanding pathways linking advanced epigenetic age to morbidity and mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filomene G. Morrison
- National Center for PTSD at VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA 02130, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Mark W. Logue
- National Center for PTSD at VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA 02130, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
- Biomedical Genetics, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Rachel Guetta
- National Center for PTSD at VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA 02130, USA
| | - Hannah Maniates
- National Center for PTSD at VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA 02130, USA
| | - Annjanette Stone
- Pharmacogenomics Analysis Laboratory, Research Service, Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
| | - Steven A. Schichman
- Pharmacogenomics Analysis Laboratory, Research Service, Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
| | - Regina E. McGlinchey
- Geriatric Research Educational and Clinical Center and Translational Research Center for TBI and Stress Disorders, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA 02130, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - William P. Milberg
- Geriatric Research Educational and Clinical Center and Translational Research Center for TBI and Stress Disorders, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA 02130, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Mark W. Miller
- National Center for PTSD at VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA 02130, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Erika J. Wolf
- National Center for PTSD at VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA 02130, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
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44
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Fransquet PD, Wrigglesworth J, Woods RL, Ernst ME, Ryan J. The epigenetic clock as a predictor of disease and mortality risk: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Clin Epigenetics 2019; 11:62. [PMID: 30975202 PMCID: PMC6458841 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-019-0656-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 169] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2018] [Accepted: 03/25/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ageing is one of the principal risk factors for many chronic diseases. However, there is considerable between-person variation in the rate of ageing and individual differences in their susceptibility to disease and death. Epigenetic mechanisms may play a role in human ageing, and DNA methylation age biomarkers may be good predictors of age-related diseases and mortality risk. The aims of this systematic review were to identify and synthesise the evidence for an association between peripherally measured DNA methylation age and longevity, age-related disease, and mortality risk. METHODS A systematic search was conducted in line with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Using relevant search terms, MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and PsychINFO databases were searched to identify articles meeting the inclusion criteria. Studies were assessed for bias using Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal checklists. Data was extracted from studies measuring age acceleration as a predictor of age-related diseases, mortality or longevity, and the findings for similar outcomes compared. Using Review Manager 5.3 software, two meta-analyses (one per epigenetic clock) were conducted on studies measuring all-cause mortality. RESULTS Twenty-three relevant articles were identified, including a total of 41,607 participants. Four studies focused on ageing and longevity, 11 on age-related disease (cancer, cardiovascular disease, and dementia), and 11 on mortality. There was some, although inconsistent, evidence for an association between increased DNA methylation age and risk of disease. Meta-analyses indicated that each 5-year increase in DNA methylation age was associated an 8 to 15% increased risk of mortality. CONCLUSION Due to the small number of studies and heterogeneity in study design and outcomes, the association between DNA methylation age and age-related disease and longevity is inconclusive. Increased epigenetic age was associated with mortality risk, but positive publication bias needs to be considered. Further research is needed to determine the extent to which DNA methylation age can be used as a clinical biomarker.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter D Fransquet
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, ASPREE, Level 5, The Alfred Centre, 99 Commercial Road, Melbourne, Victoria, 3004, Australia.,Disease Epigenetics, Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3052, Australia
| | - Jo Wrigglesworth
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, ASPREE, Level 5, The Alfred Centre, 99 Commercial Road, Melbourne, Victoria, 3004, Australia
| | - Robyn L Woods
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, ASPREE, Level 5, The Alfred Centre, 99 Commercial Road, Melbourne, Victoria, 3004, Australia
| | - Michael E Ernst
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Science, College of Pharmacy, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA.,Department of Family Medicine, Carver College of Medicine, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Joanne Ryan
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, ASPREE, Level 5, The Alfred Centre, 99 Commercial Road, Melbourne, Victoria, 3004, Australia. .,Disease Epigenetics, Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3052, Australia. .,INSERM, U1061, Neuropsychiatrie, Recherche Clinique et Epidémiologique, Neuropsychiatry: Research Epidemiological and Clinic, Université Montpellier, 34000, Montpellier, France.
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45
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Wolf EJ, Logue MW, Morrison FG, Wilcox ES, Stone A, Schichman SA, McGlinchey RE, Milberg WP, Miller MW. Posttraumatic psychopathology and the pace of the epigenetic clock: a longitudinal investigation. Psychol Med 2019; 49:791-800. [PMID: 29897034 PMCID: PMC6292741 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291718001411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and stress/trauma exposure are cross-sectionally associated with advanced DNA methylation age relative to chronological age. However, longitudinal inquiry and examination of associations between advanced DNA methylation age and a broader range of psychiatric disorders is lacking. The aim of this study was to examine if PTSD, depression, generalized anxiety, and alcohol-use disorders predicted acceleration of DNA methylation age over time (i.e. an increasing pace, or rate of advancement, of the epigenetic clock). METHODS Genome-wide DNA methylation and a comprehensive set of psychiatric symptoms and diagnoses were assessed in 179 Iraq/Afghanistan war veterans who completed two assessments over the course of approximately 2 years. Two DNA methylation age indices (Horvath and Hannum), each a weighted index of an array of genome-wide DNA methylation probes, were quantified. The pace of the epigenetic clock was operationalized as change in DNA methylation age as a function of time between assessments. RESULTS Analyses revealed that alcohol-use disorders (p = 0.001) and PTSD avoidance and numbing symptoms (p = 0.02) at Time 1 were associated with an increasing pace of the epigenetic clock over time, per the Horvath (but not the Hannum) index of cellular aging. CONCLUSIONS This is the first study to suggest that posttraumatic psychopathology is longitudinally associated with a quickened pace of the epigenetic clock. Results raise the possibility that accelerated cellular aging is a common biological consequence of stress-related psychopathology, which carries implications for identifying mechanisms of stress-related cellular aging and developing interventions to slow its pace.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika J. Wolf
- National Center for PTSD at VA Boston Healthcare System
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine
| | - Mark W. Logue
- National Center for PTSD at VA Boston Healthcare System
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine
- Biomedical Genetics, Boston University School of Medicine
| | - Filomene G. Morrison
- National Center for PTSD at VA Boston Healthcare System
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine
| | | | - Annjanette Stone
- Pharmacogenomics Analysis Laboratory, Research Service, Central
Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System
| | - Steven A. Schichman
- Pharmacogenomics Analysis Laboratory, Research Service, Central
Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System
| | - Regina E. McGlinchey
- Geriatric Research Educational and Clinical Center and Translational
Research Center for TBI and Stress Disorders, VA Boston Healthcare System
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School
| | - William P. Milberg
- Geriatric Research Educational and Clinical Center and Translational
Research Center for TBI and Stress Disorders, VA Boston Healthcare System
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School
| | - Mark W. Miller
- National Center for PTSD at VA Boston Healthcare System
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine
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46
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Morrison FG, Miller MW, Logue MW, Assef M, Wolf EJ. DNA methylation correlates of PTSD: Recent findings and technical challenges. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2019; 90:223-234. [PMID: 30503303 PMCID: PMC6314898 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2018.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2018] [Revised: 11/14/2018] [Accepted: 11/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
There is increasing evidence that epigenetic factors play a critical role in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), by mediating the impact of environmental exposures to trauma on the regulation of gene expression. DNA methylation is one epigenetic process that has been highly studied in PTSD. This review will begin by providing an overview of DNA methylation (DNAm) methods, and will then highlight two major biological systems that have been identified in the epigenetic regulation in PTSD: (a) the immune system and (b) the stress response system. In addition to candidate gene approaches, we will review novel strategies to study epigenome-wide PTSD-related effects, including epigenome-wide algorithms that distill information from many loci into a single summary score (e.g., measures of "epigenetic age" which have been associated with PTSD). This review will also cover recent epigenome wide association studies (EWAS) of PTSD, and biological pathway models used to identify gene sets enriched in PTSD. Finally, we address technical and methodological advances and challenges to the field, and highlight exciting directions for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filomene G Morrison
- National Center for PTSD, VA Boston Healthcare System, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, USA.
| | - Mark W Miller
- National Center for PTSD, VA Boston Healthcare System, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, USA
| | - Mark W Logue
- National Center for PTSD, VA Boston Healthcare System, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, USA; Biomedical Genetics, Boston University School of Medicine, USA; Department of Biostatistics, Boston University School of Public Health, USA
| | - Michele Assef
- Boston University, College of Health & Rehabilitation Sciences: Sargent College, USA
| | - Erika J Wolf
- National Center for PTSD, VA Boston Healthcare System, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, USA
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47
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Xiao FH, Wang HT, Kong QP. Dynamic DNA Methylation During Aging: A "Prophet" of Age-Related Outcomes. Front Genet 2019; 10:107. [PMID: 30833961 PMCID: PMC6387955 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2019.00107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2018] [Accepted: 01/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The biological markers of aging used to predict physical health status in older people are of great interest. Telomere shortening, which occurs during the process of cell replication, was initially considered a promising biomarker for the prediction of age and age-related outcomes (e.g., diseases, longevity). However, the high instability in detection and low correlation with age-related outcomes limit the extension of telomere length to the field of prediction. Currently, a growing number of studies have shown that dynamic DNA methylation throughout human lifetime exhibits strong correlation with age and age-related outcomes. Indeed, many researchers have built age prediction models with high accuracy based on age-dependent methylation changes in certain CpG loci. For now, DNA methylation based on epigenetic clocks, namely epigenetic or DNA methylation age, serves as a new standard to track chronological age and predict biological age. Measures of age acceleration (Δage, DNA methylation age – chronological age) have been developed to assess the health status of a person. In addition, there is evidence that an accelerated epigenetic age exists in patients with certain age-related diseases (e.g., Alzheimer’s disease, cardiovascular disease). In this review, we provide an overview of the dynamic signatures of DNA methylation during aging and emphasize its practical utility in the prediction of various age-related outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fu-Hui Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources and Evolution, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China.,Center for Excellence in Animal Evolution and Genetics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China.,Key Laboratory of Healthy Aging Research of Yunnan Province, Kunming, China.,Kunming Key Laboratory of Healthy Aging Study, Kunming, China.,KIZ/CUHK Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, Kunming, China
| | - Hao-Tian Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources and Evolution, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China.,Center for Excellence in Animal Evolution and Genetics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China.,Key Laboratory of Healthy Aging Research of Yunnan Province, Kunming, China.,Kunming Key Laboratory of Healthy Aging Study, Kunming, China.,KIZ/CUHK Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, Kunming, China.,Kunming College of Life Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Qing-Peng Kong
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources and Evolution, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China.,Center for Excellence in Animal Evolution and Genetics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China.,Key Laboratory of Healthy Aging Research of Yunnan Province, Kunming, China.,Kunming Key Laboratory of Healthy Aging Study, Kunming, China.,KIZ/CUHK Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, Kunming, China
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48
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Blacker CJ, Frye MA, Morava E, Kozicz T, Veldic M. A Review of Epigenetics of PTSD in Comorbid Psychiatric Conditions. Genes (Basel) 2019; 10:genes10020140. [PMID: 30781888 PMCID: PMC6410143 DOI: 10.3390/genes10020140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2018] [Revised: 02/08/2019] [Accepted: 02/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is an acquired psychiatric disorder with functionally impairing physiological and psychological symptoms following a traumatic exposure. Genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors act together to determine both an individual's susceptibility to PTSD and its clinical phenotype. In this literature review, we briefly review the candidate genes that have been implicated in the development and severity of the PTSD phenotype. We discuss the importance of the epigenetic regulation of these candidate genes. We review the general epigenetic mechanisms that are currently understood, with examples of each in the PTSD phenotype. Our focus then turns to studies that have examined PTSD in the context of comorbid psychiatric disorders or associated social and behavioral stressors. We examine the epigenetic variation in cases or models of PTSD with comorbid depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, and substance use disorders. We reviewed the literature that has explored epigenetic regulation in PTSD in adverse childhood experiences and suicide phenotypes. Finally, we review some of the information available from studies of the transgenerational transmission of epigenetic variation in maternal cases of PTSD. We discuss areas pertinent for future study to further elucidate the complex interactions between epigenetic modifications and this complex psychiatric disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caren J Blacker
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
| | - Mark A Frye
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
| | - Eva Morava
- Center for Individualized Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
- Clinical Genomics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
| | - Tamas Kozicz
- Center for Individualized Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
- Clinical Genomics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
| | - Marin Veldic
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
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49
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Major trauma and acceleration of the ageing process. Ageing Res Rev 2018; 48:32-39. [PMID: 30316759 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2018.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2018] [Revised: 09/07/2018] [Accepted: 10/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
It is well established that numerous factors can affect the rate at which we age biologically. Diet, physical activity, lifestyle and our genes all play a major role in influencing the ageing trajectory and longevity. Major trauma affects millions globally, is the major cause of death in young adults and could influence ageing processes but has largely been ignored by biogenterologists. The long-term health consequences of physical trauma are well known in the medical community, how trauma effects the ageing process at a molecular level is not. It has long been difficult to assess ageing trajectories due to the absence of a biomarker of biological rather than chronological age. Recent advances in epigenetics have helped by identifying specific DNA methylation sites as good indicators of biological age. Recent investigations into the impact of psychological trauma and the associated physical stress on accelerating ageing as measured by epigenetic drift are promising. The physical and metabolic stress which is synonymous with physical trauma may also accelerate the ageing process. We suggest that long term epigenetic profiling is required to understand to what degree the ageing trajectory is altered by trauma, which will in turn add support for the development of novel therapies to improve health outcomes for survivors of traumatic injury.
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50
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Verhoeven JE, Yang R, Wolkowitz OM, Bersani FS, Lindqvist D, Mellon SH, Yehuda R, Flory JD, Lin J, Abu-Amara D, Makotkine I, Marmar C, Jett M, Hammamieh R. Epigenetic Age in Male Combat-Exposed War Veterans: Associations with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Status. MOLECULAR NEUROPSYCHIATRY 2018; 4:90-99. [PMID: 30397597 PMCID: PMC6206951 DOI: 10.1159/000491431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2018] [Accepted: 05/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
DNA methylation patterns change with age and can be used to derive an estimate of "epigenetic age," an indicator of biological age. Several studies have shown associations of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) with worse somatic health and early mortality, raising the possibility of accelerated biological aging. This study examined associations between estimated epigenetic age and various variables in 160 male combat-exposed war veterans with (n = 79) and without PTSD (n = 81). DNA methylation was assessed in leukocyte genomic DNA using the Illumina 450K DNA methylation arrays. Epigenetic age was estimated using Horvath's epigenetic clock algorithm and Δage (epigenetic age-chronological age) was calculated. In veterans with PTSD (Δage = 3.2), Δage was on average lower compared to those without PTSD (Δage = 5.0; p = 0.02; Cohen's d = 0.42). This between-group difference was not explained by race/ethnicity, lifestyle factors or childhood trauma. Antidepressant use, however, explained part of the association. In the PTSD positive group, telomerase activity was negatively related to Δage (β = -0.35; p = 0.007). In conclusion, veterans with PTSD had significantly lower epigenetic age profiles than those without PTSD. Further, current antidepressant use and higher telomerase activity were related to relatively less epigenetic aging in veterans with PTSD, speculative of a mechanistic pathway that might attenuate biological aging-related processes in the context of PTSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josine E. Verhoeven
- Department of Psychiatry, UCSF Weill Institute for Neuroscience, University of California San Francisco, School of Medicine, San Francisco, California, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ruoting Yang
- D, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, Maryland, USA
- Integrative Systems Biology, U.S. Army Center for Environmental Health Research, Fort Detrick, Maryland, USA
| | - Owen M. Wolkowitz
- Department of Psychiatry, UCSF Weill Institute for Neuroscience, University of California San Francisco, School of Medicine, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Francesco S. Bersani
- Department of Psychiatry, UCSF Weill Institute for Neuroscience, University of California San Francisco, School of Medicine, San Francisco, California, USA
- Department of Neurology and Psychiatry, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniel Lindqvist
- Department of Psychiatry, UCSF Weill Institute for Neuroscience, University of California San Francisco, School of Medicine, San Francisco, California, USA
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Synthia H. Mellon
- Department of OB/GYN and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, School of Medicine, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Rachel Yehuda
- James J. Peters Veterans Administration Medical Center Bronx, New York, New York, USA
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Janine D. Flory
- James J. Peters Veterans Administration Medical Center Bronx, New York, New York, USA
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Jue Lin
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of California San Francisco, School of Medicine, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Duna Abu-Amara
- Steven and Alexandra Cohen Veterans Center for Posttraumatic Stress and Traumatic Brain Injury, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, New York University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Iouri Makotkine
- James J. Peters Veterans Administration Medical Center Bronx, New York, New York, USA
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Charles Marmar
- Steven and Alexandra Cohen Veterans Center for Posttraumatic Stress and Traumatic Brain Injury, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, New York University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Marti Jett
- Integrative Systems Biology, U.S. Army Center for Environmental Health Research, Fort Detrick, Maryland, USA
| | - Rasha Hammamieh
- Integrative Systems Biology, U.S. Army Center for Environmental Health Research, Fort Detrick, Maryland, USA
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