Generic placeholder image

Current Chemical Biology

Editor-in-Chief

ISSN (Print): 2212-7968
ISSN (Online): 1872-3136

Aging and DNA Methylation

Author(s): Jei Kim, Jee-Yeon Kim and Jean-Pierre J. Issa

Volume 3, Issue 1, 2009

Page: [1 - 9] Pages: 9

DOI: 10.2174/2212796810903010001

Price: $65

Abstract

Human longevity is influenced by both inherited and environmental factors. Alterations in gene function that are related to inherited genetic mutations and polymorphisms can explain some features of aging and age-related diseases. However, in addition to inherited genetic factors, aging is influenced by the gradual accumulation of molecular alterations after birth. Epigenetic changes can influence gene function during aging without inherited and acquired DNA sequence alterations. In particular, promoter DNA methylation changes and associated gene silencing are epigenetic changes that are prominent in some cells and age-related diseases. Here, we review genetic approaches to understand aging, and discuss the potential role of epigenetic mechanisms in human aging and age-related diseases.

Keywords: DNA methylation, epigenetics, genetics, Aging

Next »

Rights & Permissions Print Cite
© 2024 Bentham Science Publishers | Privacy Policy