Functional Consequences

Researchers behind a US-based study focused on women with HIV have found that epigenetic aging is accelerated compared with women without HIV (1).

Using Infinium BeadChips, the team measured DNA methylation age in 190 participants, alongside bone mineral density and physical function assessments. The results confirmed that measures of accelerated epigenetic aging are associated with lower physical function. But no significant associations were found between accelerated epigenetic aging and bone mineral density, despite links being established in a previous study (2).

“We were surprised to find no relationship between accelerated aging and bone mineral density,” says lead author Stephanie Shiau, “Ongoing research is needed to progress our understanding of these results.”

“Alongside exploring accelerated aging at different stages across the lifespan, we’re also hoping to investigate what factors may be related to lessened or increased accelerated aging, such as antiretroviral therapy,” continues Shiau. “Deepening our understanding of how aging, HIV infection, treatment, and comorbidities interact with each other is key in maintaining health and quality of life for people living with HIV.”

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