Understanding Androgenetic Alopecia and Aging
For years, I have maintained that hair loss due to androgenetic alopecia is an aging process. Individuals experiencing hair loss at a young age invariably have hair that is biologically older than their chronological age. Chronological age reflects the number of candles on your birthday cake. Your biological age notes the age of your cells at the DNA level. We all have an inherited genetic predisposition. For example, we inherit the gene for hair loss. However, epigenetics can accelerate this process. Epigenetics comes from the Greek word epi, which means upon, over, or on. Hence, factors other than our genetic code can influence our gene expression. Briefly, DNA has an on and off switch. The methylation of DNA influences aging. Methylation of DNA turns DNA expression off. For example, inflammation or Inflammaging is one factor that causes hair loss through the loss of stem cells or the lack of expression of genes necessary to initiate a cell cycle. Anything that increases inflammation leads to aging and theoretically could have an accelerated epigenetic influence on hair loss.
The Role of DNA Methylation in Aging
There is a correlation between DNA methylation patterns and chronologic age. Over time, three generations of DNA methylation tests have emerged. These tests use machine learning to predict age. In 2011, we saw the first DNA methylation-based age clock in the literature. In 2013, the multi-tissue Horvath and Hannum whole blood clocks debuted using a machine learning algorithm to predict biological age. In 2016, the second-generation aging clock improved the predictive measure of age by looking at environmental influences and lifestyle choices. 2020, the first third-generation clock (DunedinPo Am) was produced, followed by the improved DunedinPACE clock in 2021. The Dunedin PACE clock regularly follows people in Dunedin, New Zealand. They evaluate DNA methylation markers for aging, such as grip strength, blood biomarkers, dental health, brain changes, and other variables. The DunedinPACE clock also follows the rate of aging. In 2023, TruDiagnostic established the OMICmAge clock in conjunction with Harvard. The OMICm age includes a more comprehensive collection of aging data. OMICm Age was the first clock trained with Proteomic, metabolomic, and clinical measures. The OMICm Age is more precise, and measures change due to small molecules and protein biomarkers. Older tests could tell you how old you were biologically, while newer tests can tell you why by looking at individual biomarkers.
Mechanisms of DNA Methylation and Demethylation
DNA methylation is carried out by an enzyme called DNA methyl transferase (DNMT). Another demethylase enzyme of the ten-eleven translocation (TET) methylcytosine dioxygenases demethylate DNA. Methylation and demethylation are essential for turning on and off genes during normal cellular function. Furthermore, since all cells in your body have the same DNA, you don’t want liver genes functioning in brain tissue, so it’s best to turn off these genes by methylating them. In aging, the process gets out of whack. Over time, complex mathematical models made correlating aging with DNA methylation patterns possible.
Influence of Genetic, Epigenetic, and Environmental Factors on Aging
Genetic, epigenetic, environmental factors, and lifestyle choices influence aging. Two individuals with the same chronological age may progress through the functional decline that characterizes biological aging at different rates. The excellent news is modifications in life choices can alter your rate of aging. For this reason, I want to introduce and expand on the TruDiagnostic test, which I am now offering to my patients. With this test, you can now learn your biological age, and we can follow your response to changes in your life. We want to evaluate changes in your rate of aging and biological age based on changes you make in your life. I am also discussing with TruDiagnostic to add some cohort studies to measure responses related to your hair loss. This cohort would be the first attempt to evaluate hair loss treatment at the gene level.
Two people with the same chronological age can have different biological ages. Understanding your biological age is the first step in focusing on ways to slow your aging process. While many aspects of life are influenced by genetic predisposition, epigenetic stress can accelerate the aging process. Identifying your current biological age with TruDiagnostic testing sets the foundation for personalized strategies to manage and slow down your biological aging. I believe in the importance of agents specifically designed to retard and reverse hair loss. However, it is also vital to take a holistic approach to aging.
TruDiagnostic testing allows one to evaluate how lifestyle changes and therapeutic interventions change your aging rate and biological age. We have increased lifespan for many decades since the 1940s. However, there is a lifespan and a health span. Your health span is your disease-free, healthy life. One area in which we have made great strides is cardiovascular health. However, a small percentage of individuals will suffer dementia for perhaps the last ten years of their prolonged life. We see hair loss begin at times in teenagers and one’s twenties. Here, the hair ages long before other organs of the body. We can now slow the aging process of hair and reverse hair loss, provided we intervene soon enough. TruDiagnostic will also allow me to create a cohort to evaluate how therapeutic interventions for hair loss influence your cell age at the DNA level.
Over the past few decades, we have successfully extended our lifespan to 85. It is theorized that minimizing the epigenetic stress in our environment can add up to 45 additional years. What is epigenetic stress? Epigenetic stress refers to changes in the regulation of gene expression that occur without alterations to the DNA sequence itself. These changes can be induced by various environmental factors such as diet, exposure to toxins, psychological stress, and other lifestyle factors. Epigenetic modifications can affect how genes are turned on or off and significantly impact an organism’s development, health, and disease susceptibility. Common mechanisms of epigenetic regulation include DNA methylation, histone modification (the addition or removal of chemical groups to histone proteins around which DNA is wrapped, affecting how tightly DNA is wound and its accessibility for transcription), and non-coding RNAs (RNA molecules that do not code for proteins but can regulate gene expression at the transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels). Epigenetic stress can occur from environmental exposure (pollution, chemicals, radiation, and other environmental factors), nutritional factors, psychological stress, sleep, and lifestyle factors (smoking, alcohol, and physical activity). The effects of epigenetic stress can be long-lasting and, in some cases, transgenerational, meaning they can be passed down to subsequent generations. Understanding epigenetic stress is crucial for insights into developing diseases such as cancer, neurological disorders, metabolic diseases, and hair loss.
TruDiagnostic: A Tool for Measuring Biological Age
TruDiagnostic Epigenetic Testing is a cutting-edge method for analyzing the epigenome to provide insights into health, aging, and disease susceptibility. Unlike genetic testing, which examines the DNA sequence, epigenetic testing looks at the modifications that regulate gene expression without altering the DNA sequence. Various factors, including lifestyle, environment, and age can influence these modifications.
At its core, TruDiagnostic Epigenetic Testing focuses on DNA methylation, a critical epigenetic marker. DNA methylation involves adding a methyl group to the DNA molecule, typically at cytosine bases adjacent to guanine bases, known as CpG sites. This process can activate or repress gene expression, which is crucial in cellular function and overall health. By analyzing DNA methylation patterns, TruDiagnostic provides a comprehensive overview of an individual’s epigenetic profile.
How TruDiagnostic Testing Works?
The testing begins with a simple blood sample, from which DNA is extracted. The DNA is then treated and processed to identify methylation patterns across the genome. These patterns are compared against a robust reference database to generate personalized reports. The reports include information on biological age, which can differ from chronological age based on the cumulative effects of lifestyle and environmental factors on gene expression. Additionally, the test can provide insights into various health risks, such as cardiovascular disease, metabolic disorders, and cognitive decline.
One significant advantage of TruDiagnostic Epigenetic Testing is its focus on actionable insights. The test results are informative and practical, offering guidance on how to modify lifestyle and environmental factors to improve health outcomes. Modifications can include recommendations on diet, exercise, stress management, and other interventions aimed at optimizing gene expression and, consequently, overall well-being.
TruDiagnostic also emphasizes the predictive power of epigenetic testing. By identifying patterns associated with certain health risks, individuals can take proactive measures to mitigate these risks before they manifest as clinical conditions. For instance, an individual with epigenetic markers indicating a higher risk of cardiovascular disease can adopt heart-healthy behaviors to reduce this risk.
Moreover, TruDiagnostic Epigenetic Testing is valuable for understanding aging at the molecular level. Biological age, as determined by epigenetic markers, can provide a more accurate reflection of an individual’s health and longevity prospects than chronological age. This information is crucial for those seeking to implement anti-aging strategies and improve their quality of life as they age.
Currently, several epigenetic testing systems evaluate biological age. TruDiagnostic uses third-generation biomarkers called the DunedinPACE (Pace of Aging computed from the epigenome) to measure the rate of aging and provide insights into influencers on the aging process. Previous clocks, like the Horvath clock, measured biological age by correlating DNA methylation patterns with chronological age. Traditional clocks like Horvath often focus on specific CpG sites associated with aging.
DunedinPACE utilizes a broader range of epigenetic data and incorporates advanced algorithms to provide a more detailed and nuanced picture of aging. Moreover, the older models could have been more precise. For example, two different tests at the same time might have a 20% difference in age, whereas the TruDiagnostic test has a 0.5% difference between two samples performed simultaneously. Traditional clocks are less sensitive to short-term changes and may not show immediate effects of lifestyle interventions. DunedinPace detects changes in the rate of aging due to lifestyle modifications, which is valuable for monitoring the effectiveness of health interventions and anti-aging treatments. The DunedinPACE clock offers advantages over traditional biological clocks by providing a dynamic, sensitive, and predictive measure of aging. Its ability to track the rate of aging and respond to lifestyle changes makes it a powerful tool for researchers and individuals looking to monitor and influence their aging trajectory.
Another standard biological aging test is Tally, associated with the well-known geneticist David Sinclair, PhD at Harvard. Tally has no published algorithms, while TruDiagnostic has six published algorithms. TruDiagnostic uses resources in conjunction with Harvard, Yale, Duke, John Hopkins, Van Andel Institute, Cornell, and Columbia Universities. Tally uses a proprietary system for evaluating age but offers less insight and predictive capability now. Tally looks at 850,000 DNA methylation sites, while TruDiagnostic looks at over 1 million DNA methylation sites. Tally uses a saliva swab, which is less invasive, while TruDiagnostic uses a blood sample, which many feel is more accurate than saliva.
TruDiagnostic provides a 75-page baseline age report noting your biological age and how you compare to the general population and treatment framework. Consider this a personalized literature review. With 60% of methylation markers changeable, TruDiagnostic provides a list of epidemiological factors influencing your biological age. This allows you to target lifestyle changes that reduce your biological age and slow aging.
Benefits of TruDiagnostic Epigenetic Testing
The benefits of TruDiagnostic Epigenetic Testing are multifaceted. It offers valuable insights into health, aging, and disease prevention. By leveraging the power of epigenetics, this testing method provides individuals with a detailed understanding of their biological processes, enabling personalized health strategies that can significantly enhance their quality of life.
One of the primary benefits is the assessment of biological age. Unlike chronological age, the number of years lived, biological age reflects the actual state of an individual’s cells and tissues. The difference is crucial because biological age is a more accurate indicator of health and longevity. Individuals with a lower biological age than chronological age are generally healthier and have a lower risk of age-related diseases. Conversely, a higher biological age can signal the need for lifestyle changes to reduce health risks. By knowing their biological age, individuals can proactively align it to a lower level than their chronological age, improving their overall health and longevity. The relative mortality risk from cardiovascular disease and cancer due to aging is greater than the compared risks from smoking, obesity, hypertension, or cancer. Turning back the clock or reversing your clock is essential for your health and hair.
Another significant benefit is the ability to identify health risks early. TruDiagnostic Epigenetic Testing can detect epigenetic markers associated with various diseases long before symptoms appear. This early detection is vital for prevention and early intervention. For example, suppose the test reveals markers linked to a higher risk of dementia. In that case, an individual can adopt brain-healthy behaviors, such as a balanced diet, regular exercise (aerobic, resistance, and neurocognitive training), adequate sleep, and stress management techniques. This proactive approach can prevent disease onset and improve long-term health outcomes.
SYMPHONY age evaluates 11 different body parts. Scientists at Yale developed this test, System Methylation Proxy of Heterogeneous Organ Years (SYMPHONY), because not all organs age equally in different people. People who don’t exercise, smoke, drink alcohol, eat poorly, and don’t exercise their minds will age differently than someone with a healthier lifestyle. Some people live healthier, except for heavy drinking. Individual behavior will influence the aging of particular organs. TruDiagnostic testing incorporates SYMPHONY.
Some tests evaluate immune cells; however, this can lead to false age predictions because T cell populations vary based on the presence or absence of a disease like a common cold. As pluripotent stem cells differentiate into a specific cell type, the cells will exhibit a unique DNA methylation profile. Our immune DNA methylation profile changes as we age and undergo immunosenescence. TruDiagnositic uses algorithms that are absent from other competitors to improve accuracy while evaluating immune cells.
TruDiagnostic also measures telomere length, which is a predictor of age. Telomeres are a cap at the end of a chromosome. Think of them as the cap on your shoelace’s end that protects it from fraying. As cells divide, telomeres shorten one nucleotide base pair with each cell division. Cell division stops when the telomere disappears. However, telomere length can vary, so there are better representations of your actual age than telomere length alone. However, testing allows you to track your telomere length over time.
The test measures your risk of type 2 diabetes, a genetic and environmental disease influenced by epigenetic factors. If you are at greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes, you might consider lifestyle modifications early in life to prevent a metabolic syndrome. A metabolic syndrome includes any three of five conditions: insulin resistance, hypertension, obesity, high levels of triglycerides, and low levels of HDL cholesterol. Obesity and insulin resistance go hand in hand. The metabolic syndrome puts you at greater risk of diseases.
Inflammation also occurs with aging. The test looks at methylation of C-reactive protein and interleukin 6 (IL-6), which are markers of inflammation. Chronic inflammation predisposes you to cancer, Alzheimer’s, and cardiovascular disease and is a component in hair loss. DNA methylation provides a more comprehensive evaluation of inflammation than traditional lab testing.
TruDiagnostic has an algorithm to evaluate your mitotic clock. Currently, this algorithm is exclusive to TruDiagnostic. It measures stem cell divisions. A higher rate of stem cell division is an indicator of inflammation and, potentially, tumors. Higher tissue turnover increases the risk of developing cancer. While the test does not detect cancer by itself, it can serve as a tool to identify high-risk individuals. Incidentally, TruDiagnostic also offers a multicancer detection kit
Fitness age is a test developed at UCLA to evaluate physical fitness in epigenetic clocks. These tests include VO2 max, FEV1, grip strength, and gait speed. TruDiagnostic worked with Harvard to develop their version of this test called OMICm FitAge. With this information, you might see changes in your fitness aging based on environmental and lifestyle changes.
Smoking leaves a lasting impact on your health and an enduring signature on your DNA. Analysis of DNA methylation on specific loci (where a particular gene is located on a chromosome) shows the impact of smoking even after you quit. These markers reflect the physical changes you have from smoking. Alcohol also accelerates biological aging and increases disease risks. Alcohol DNA methylation gradually declines following abstinence but rapidly re-attaches with resumption. Our negative behavior has consequences that predispose to cellular damage over time. These changes are evident in our DNA.
Obesity is a risk factor for many diseases. There is a genetic predisposition for becoming obese and obesity-related disorders. Some people respond well to calorie restriction for weight loss. Others do not respond as well. Currently, this testing suggests who will respond better to a hypocaloric diet.
The testing also provides personalized health recommendations based on an individual’s unique epigenetic profile. These recommendations are tailored to optimize gene expression and enhance overall well-being. They may include dietary changes, specific types of physical activity, stress reduction strategies, and other lifestyle modifications. This personalized approach ensures that the health strategies are practical and relevant to the individual’s specific needs, maximizing their potential benefits.
Moreover, TruDiagnostic Epigenetic Testing is valuable for monitoring the effectiveness of health interventions. By periodically retesting and comparing the results, individuals can track the impact of lifestyle changes on their epigenetic markers. This feedback loop allows for the adjustment of strategies to ensure continuous improvement and optimal health outcomes.
Testing also plays a critical role in advancing the understanding of aging. By studying the epigenetic changes that occur with age, researchers can develop targeted anti-aging interventions. This has significant implications for extending healthy lifespans and improving the quality of life in older adults. Individuals can benefit from these advances by staying informed about the latest developments and incorporating evidence-based anti-aging strategies into their routines.
Furthermore, TruDiagnostic Epigenetic Testing supports personalized medicine. By understanding an individual’s unique epigenetic profile, healthcare providers can develop more precise treatment plans. This approach ensures that medical interventions are tailored to the individual’s genetic and epigenetic makeup, enhancing their effectiveness and reducing the risk of adverse effects.
In summary, TruDiagnostic Epigenetic Testing is a powerful tool for personalized health assessment. Analyzing DNA methylation patterns offers detailed insights into biological age, health risks, and the potential impact of lifestyle and environmental factors on gene expression. This information empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their health, leading to improved outcomes and enhanced well-being.
Key Points:
What Does TruDiagnostic Epigenetic Testing Measure?
TruDiagnostic focuses on epigenetic testing, specifically analyzing DNA methylation patterns to assess biological aging and other health markers. The primary areas of testing include:
- 1. Biological Age: Measures the biological age of cells compared to chronological age.
- 2. Immune System Aging: Evaluates the state of the immune system, indicating potential vulnerabilities or strengths.
- 3. Telomere Length: This measure assesses the length of telomeres, which are protective caps on chromosomes that shorten with age.
- 4. Risk for Chronic Diseases: This section identifies potential risks for diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and metabolic disorders.
- 5. Type Two Diabetes Risk
- 6. Inflammation
- 7. Mitotic Clock
- 8. OMICm Age
- 9. DunedinPACE aging rate
- 10. Cell Immune markers
- 11. Fitness Age (VO2 max, FEV1, Grip Strength, and Gait Speed
- 12. Smoking and Drinking influence and history
- 13. Weight Loss Response Report
- 14. Extrinsic and Intrinsic Age
Benefits of TruDiagnostic Epigenetic Testing
- 1. Personalized Health Insights: Provides a detailed understanding of an individual’s biological aging process, helping tailor lifestyle and health interventions.
- 2. Early Detection of Disease Risk: Identifies early markers for chronic diseases, allowing for proactive management and prevention strategies.
- 3. Monitoring Health Interventions: Tracks the effectiveness of lifestyle changes, supplements, and medications on biological aging.
- 4. Enhanced Wellness: Offers insights into immune function, helping improve overall health and wellness.
- 5. Research and Development: Contributes valuable data to ongoing research in aging and epigenetics, advancing scientific understanding.
How is the Test Done?
- 1. Sample Collection: A simple at-home blood sample collection kit is used. You prick your finger and express 10-15 drops of blood. Alternatively, you can use the Tasso+ self-collection device.
- 2. Sample Submission: The sample is mailed and analyzed in a laboratory.
- 3. DNA Extraction and Analysis: DNA is extracted from the sample, and methylation patterns are analyzed using advanced sequencing technologies.
- 4. Report Generation: A detailed report is generated, providing insights into biological age, telomere length, immune function, and disease risk, etc. The process generally takes two weeks.
- 5. Consultation: Optional consultations with healthcare professionals to interpret results and create personalized health plans.
Comparison with Other Aging Tests (e.g., Tally)
Tally focuses on biological age by analyzing specific biomarkers obtained from saliva. It offers insights into physiological age and provides health recommendations.
TruDiagnostic utilizes comprehensive epigenetic data, offering a broader range of health insights, including detailed DNA methylation analysis, immune system aging, and disease risk.
The Importance of DNA Methylation
DNA methylation is an epigenetic mechanism involving the addition of methyl groups to DNA molecules, influencing gene expression without altering the DNA sequence. It plays a crucial role in regulating gene activity, development, and aging.
Benefits of Telomere Length Testing
- 1. Aging Marker: Telomere length is a well-established marker of cellular aging.
- 2. Disease Risk Prediction: Shorter telomeres are associated with an increased risk of chronic diseases.
- 3. Health Monitoring: Useful for tracking the impact of lifestyle and interventions on cellular health.
Ordering TruDiagnostic Kits
We have TruDiagnostic kits in stock, and we can send you one if you want to know how your biological age compares to your chronological age. You can also order Tally test kits from Tally.
