The LifeDNA Aging Genetic Report analyzes genetic markers that influence the some of the aging processes and related outcomes. Here’s a general overview of the traits covered in the report and how understanding the genetics can be beneficial:

Age-related Hearing Loss

Age-related hearing loss, also known as presbycusis, is the gradual loss of hearing that occurs as people get older. This condition typically affects both ears and results from changes in the inner ear, auditory nerve, and other structures. Contributing factors include long-term exposure to loud noises, genetics, and changes in blood supply to the ear due to heart disease or high blood pressure. Hearing loss can impact speech understanding, particularly in noisy environments, and often high-pitched sounds are lost first. Genes like SIK3 have been shown to influence this trait.

Age-related Muscle Mass Loss

Age-related muscle mass loss, or sarcopenia, involves the progressive loss of skeletal muscle mass and strength beginning as early as the 30s or 40s. This decline can contribute to weakness, decreased stamina, and an increased risk of falls and fractures. Sarcopenia is driven by factors such as hormonal changes, reduced physical activity, changes in protein synthesis, muscle regeneration, and genetics. Genes like VDR and ACTN3 have been shown to be associated with this trait.

Eyelid Sagging

Eyelid sagging, in the forms of dermatochalasis or ptosis, refers to the drooping or sagging  of the upper eyelid that often occurs with age. This can be due to the weakening of the muscles that raise the eyelid (ptosis) or degeneration of the skin and soft tissue around the eyes (dermatochalasis). Eyelid sagging can impair vision if the eyelid falls low enough to cover the pupil. A 2018 GWAS identified several new genes, like MACROH2A2 (or H2AFY2), that were shown to be significantly associated with eyelid sagging.

Age-related Physical Function Impairment

Age-related physical function impairment encompasses a decline in the ability to perform daily tasks and movements effectively, such as walking, balancing, and handling objects. This impairment results from a combination of factors including muscle weakness, joint problems, neurological decline, cardiovascular limitations, and genetics. Genes like ACTN3 and UCP2 have been shown to be associated with this trait.

Risk of Repeated Falls

As people age, they face an increased risk of repeated falls due to factors such as reduced muscle strength, balance disturbances, visual impairments, and slower reaction times. Falls are a major concern in the elderly, leading to injuries like fractures and head trauma, which can significantly impair mobility and independence.  Genes like FHIT have been shown to be associated with this trait.

Vascular Aging

Vascular aging refers to the changes in the vascular system as we age, including stiffening of the arteries and reduced efficiency of blood vessels. These changes increase the risk of cardiovascular conditions such as hypertension, stroke, and heart attacks. Factors like smoking, high cholesterol, and diabetes can exacerbate vascular aging. A 2022 GWAS uncovered nearly 60 significant genes associated with this trait.

Age-related Bone Loss

Age-related bone loss, or osteoporosis, is the thinning of bone tissue and loss of bone density over time. As bones become less dense, they weaken and are more likely to fracture. This process is accelerated in women after menopause due to a drop in estrogen levels, a critical factor in bone density and health. Studies have shown that genes like ALDH7A1 significantly influence the risk for osteoporosis. The ALDH7A1 gene codes for a protein that breaks down and detoxifies acetaldehyde—a substance that disrupts the growth of osteoblasts (young bone cells) and reduces bone formation.

Age-related Cognitive Decline

Age-related cognitive decline is the gradual decrease in cognitive functioning that includes memory, thinking, and reasoning skills. While not all older adults experience significant cognitive decline, many will notice slower processing speeds and difficulties with multitasking, learning new skills, and remembering information. Studies have shown that the APOE region is significantly associated with cognitive aging. The LifeDNA Aging report covers many more such markers.

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Age-related Muscle Weakness

Age-related muscle weakness is a decrease in muscle strength that accompanies aging and is often associated with sarcopenia. It results from a reduction in muscle fiber quantity and quality, impacting an individual’s ability to perform physical tasks and maintain independence. Genetic variation in genes like SLC39A8 have been shown to influence this trait.

Age-related Verbal Memory Decline

Age-related verbal memory decline involves the deterioration of memory functions, characterized by difficulties in recalling names, appointments, and recent events. This type of memory loss is considered a normal part of aging, distinct from the memory impairments seen in dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. A first-of-its-kind large genetic study in 2017 found significant associations between genes like APOE and memory-related parameters like immediate recall. 

Hair Graying

Hair graying is a common sign of aging caused by the gradual loss of pigment cells (melanocytes) in hair follicles. This results in hair turning gray and eventually white as pigment production decreases. Genes like IRF4 have been shown to influence this trait.

Healthy Aging

Healthy aging refers to the process of developing and maintaining the functional ability that enables well-being in older age. This concept emphasizes optimizing opportunities for physical, social, and mental health to extend life expectancy and improve the quality of life as individuals age. Factors that promote healthy aging include a balanced diet, regular physical activity, social connections, and effective management of health conditions. Genes like LRP1B have been shown to be associated with this trait.