⏳ It is now possible to measure aging with precision

Researchers have developed a tool capable of assessing biological aging from brain MRI scans. Published in Nature Aging, their study shows how this instrument predicts risks of chronic diseases and cognitive decline. The approach combines data on brain structure with indicators of physical and mental health.


The team relied on data from the Dunedin study, tracked from birth to middle age. Participants underwent regular assessments of their heart, brain, and kidney functions. The analysis of MRI scans at age 45 helped correlate brain characteristics with the pace of aging.

The model, named DunedinPACNI, compares brain data with other health markers. It was successfully tested on international cohorts, confirming its relevance. Researchers were thus able to link accelerated aging to an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases and death.

This method could be integrated into routine check-ups, providing valuable insights into future health. It represents a step toward more personalized medicine, where interventions could be adjusted based on individual aging. The implications for preventing age-related diseases are significant.

Scientists now plan to expand the use of DunedinPACNI to other populations. The goal is to better understand how various factors influence brain aging. This breakthrough could transform our approach to long-term health and well-being.

How can MRI reveal aging?

MRI captures detailed images of the brain, allowing analysis of its structure and volume. Changes in these parameters are key indicators of aging.

Gray matter, responsible for information processing, decreases with age. White matter, which connects different parts of the brain, also undergoes alterations. These transformations can be quantified to estimate the rate of aging.

The use of machine learning helps process this data. Algorithms identify patterns invisible to the naked eye, linking brain changes to health markers.

This method offers a unique window into biological aging, well before symptoms appear. It paves the way for early interventions to slow the process.

What is epigenetics and how does it influence aging?

Epigenetics studies changes in gene expression without altering DNA. These changes can be influenced by environment, lifestyle, or aging.

DNA methylation, an epigenetic modification, plays a role in aging. It can activate or deactivate genes, thereby affecting health and longevity.

Tools like DunedinPACE use these markers to estimate the pace of aging. They complement brain imaging approaches, offering a more comprehensive view.