This study explores the effects of young blood plasma on aging at the epigenetic level in rats, specifically examining whether plasma treatment can alter the epigenetic clock, a key molecular biomarker of aging. Researchers developed six epigenetic clocks based on DNA methylation for various rat tissues, including pan-tissue, brain, liver, and blood clocks, as well as clocks applicable to both human and rat tissues.
Key findings include:
- Plasma treatment significantly reduced the epigenetic ages of blood, heart, and liver tissues, with a smaller yet notable effect in the hypothalamus.
- The treatment improved organ function, as shown by various biochemical and physiological biomarkers, and enhanced cognitive function based on behavioral tests.
- Cellular senescence, which is typically unrelated to epigenetic aging, was also notably reduced in vital organs.
Overall, this study suggests that plasma-derived treatment can effectively reverse aging in multiple organs according to epigenetic clocks and other aging markers, supporting its potential for rejuvenative therapy.