Ep. 294 Aging Decoded: Dr. Morgan Levine on Epigenetics & Longevity
Sep 2, 2023
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Dr. Morgan Levine, assistant professor of pathology at Yale University School of Medicine, explores the mysteries of biological aging, epigenetics, cellular senescence, and longevity. They discuss topics like lifestyle and longevity, gender-specific aging research, gene influence, youthful fat cells, blue zones, hormesis, exercise, and sleep optimization. Join them on this insightful journey into the science of aging.
Epigenetics plays a crucial role in setting the state of cells and determining the rate of aging.
Lifestyle factors like exercise, nutrition, sleep, and stress management are key contributors to the aging process.
Addressing aging as a pathology itself has the potential to delay the onset of multiple age-related diseases.
Deep dives
The Science of Biological Aging and Lifestyle Interventions
Dr. Morgan Levine, an assistant professor of Pathology at Yale University School of Medicine, discusses her research on the science of biological aging, specifically using bioinformatics to quantify the aging process and test how lifestyle interventions alter the rate of aging. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the distinction between chronological and biological aging, with epigenetics playing a crucial role in setting the state of cells. Lifestyle factors like exercise, nutrition, sleep, and stress management are key contributors to the aging process, and addressing them can potentially delay the onset of age-related diseases.
The Role of Epigenetics in Aging and Disease
Dr. Levine explains how epigenetics, the study of chemical modifications to DNA that influence gene expression, can play a significant role in determining the rate of aging and susceptibility to various diseases. Epigenetic changes can differentiate and age different types of cells, and they are responsive to behaviors, environmental factors, and intrinsic factors. Slowing down epigenetic age could potentially delay the onset of chronic diseases that increase with age.
Telomeres and the Aging Process
Telomeres, the protective caps at the ends of chromosomes, shorten as cells divide, and their length has been associated with aging. While telomere length can decline with age and may serve as a biomarker, recent studies have highlighted the importance of epigenetic aging as a more effective biomarker. Epigenetic changes during cellular division can also impact the length of telomeres. However, more research is needed to determine how telomere length can be maintained and its exact role in the aging process.
Cellular Senescence and Aging
Dr. Levine discusses cellular senescence, a state where cells stop dividing, and its potential role in aging. While cellular senescence can act as a short-term benefit by preventing cancerous cells from proliferating, accumulated senescent cells can become pro-inflammatory and contribute to aging and age-related diseases. The presence of these zombie cells may play a significant role in driving the aging process and age-related inflammation.
Aging as a Disease State and Socioeconomic Disparities
The perception of aging as a disease state rather than a natural process is discussed. Aging is considered a major contributor to diseases like heart disease, Alzheimer's disease, diabetes, and cancer. By addressing aging as a pathology itself, interventions to delay aging could potentially prevent the onset of multiple diseases simultaneously. Additionally, the impact of socioeconomic disparities on the aging process is highlighted, with lower socioeconomic status and adverse childhood experiences being associated with accelerated aging and negative health outcomes.
Today, I am delighted to have the privilege of embarking on a journey through scientific discovery and the secrets that shape our existence with the esteemed Dr. Morgan Levine!
Dr. Levine is an assistant professor of pathology at Yale University School of Medicine, where she stands at the forefront of a groundbreaking exploration into the enigma of biological aging. Armed with the tools of bioinformatics, she has unraveled the intricacies of aging, deciphering its code. She is the author of the book True Age, and her insights have enlightened those fortunate enough to peruse its pages!
Our discussion delves into the recesses of Dr. Levine’s profound expertise, exploring the domains of biologic aging and epigenetics, unlocking the mysteries of cellular senescence, revealing the connections between lifestyle and longevity, and unearthing the reasons behind aging being considered a veritable disease state. We navigate the landscape of gender-specific aging research, gene influence exemplified by APOE, and the intriguing permanence of our youthful fat cells. We also get into the efficacy of blue zones and hormesis and the importance of exercise and sleep optimization.
Today’s conversation with Dr. Levine promises a symphony of insight and discovery! Join us as we traverse the landscapes of longevity, epigenetics, and the science that might one day render age no more than a number.
IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN:
How Dr. Morgan became interested in epigenetics.
What telomeres are, and how aging impacts them.
Why should aging be treated as a disease state?
How taking probiotics can improve longevity.
What can we do to slow the aging process?
How can we reduce our risk of dementia?
Intermittent fasting and weight loss.
The role of exercise in preventing sarcopenia and muscle loss with aging.
How do exercise and sleep impact our brains?
The effects of being disconnected from our natural circadian rhythm.
