This is a subsidiary theory in field of general theories of aging. A list of all theories is available at, “A Road-Map to Anti-Aging Theories”. This hypothesis is associated with DNA “methylation”. This is a process where genes adjacent to chromosomes are technically “methylated post to a phase DNA replication”.
Eventually, this methylation is perpetuated through cell division and thereby remains present over generations. It has been found that the methylation pattern is actually collected from ancestral history of the cell and not the genes, giving each cell a distinct attribute. This is why DNA methylation is considered the main epigenetic approach to promulgate data of cells.
Another approach which epigenomic memory is safeguarded is “histone acetylation”. Histone acetylation is associated with folding of histones, a protein that envelopes the DNA.
Each individual has a distinct DNA methylation profile. However the profile evolves with age and this makes it possible to detect certain disease and ultimately find possible cures. Recent research “DNA Methylation of Tumor Suppressor Genes in Clinical Remission Predicts the Relapse Risk in Acute Myeloid Leukemia” predicts possibilities to detect abnormalities. Researchers are already trying to construct a thorough database with DNA methylation epigenomic data, making it possible to distinguish between normal and abnormal methylation of DNA. An abnormal DNA methylation can be symptoms disease or vulnerabilities to them.
The DNA methylation has various “consequences on individuals as they age”. As a theory on aging both histone actylation and DNA methylation determine the biological age of cells of organisms. They act as information to communicate with the body to inform the biological age.
Research is delineating that methylation encourages genes in certain regions and can be a cause of gene silencing. Some genes might switch off due to continuing methylation and this acts negatively on health and longevity genes. A particular gene related to longevity for mammals, P66Shc is apparently silenced due to cytosine methylation and histone deactylation.
Going to the other side, research has not found any substantial information about DNA demethylation until now. Yet it is fundamental for “epigenetic cell reprogramming mechanism”. In the future, it might be possible to restore and revitalize cells, organs and organisms to the state in which they were when the individuals were younger.
DNA methylation and demethylation need significant research to shed light on their role in reversing aging. To the point, the theory seems more like a discovery rather than cure.
Reference:
1. Anti- aging firewalls the science and technology of longevity.
Sat, Jan 9, 2010
Anti Aging, Anti Aging Theories, Health And Aging