Top Biomarkers for Longevity

Longevity Tip: Top Biomarkers for Longevity

Tip Summary: With many biomarkers available, we identify some of the most important for longevity measurements, which include CDKN2A, Hematological parameters, and growth hormone factors.

Hey Dog Longevity friends! Last week we discussed how biomarkers can enable us to track longevity in our dogs. Now, let’s look at some of those biomarkers that make it possible. We’ll start with a more recent find, CDKN2A, which some have called the longevity gene in dogs, and then work our way through hematological and growth factors.

1. CDKN2A Gene Expression:

   • Overview: CDKN2A gene plays a crucial role in cell-cycle inhibition and acts as a tumor suppressor. Its expression has been shown to increase with age in both humans and animals, making it a potential biomarker for aging.

   • Changes Over Time: In dogs, a significant positive correlation has been observed between CDKN2A mRNA abundance and age, especially in the brain, muscle, and blood. However, no correlation was found in the skin.

   • Early vs. Later Life Values: The strongest correlation with age is detected in the brain tissue, suggesting an increase in CDKN2A expression as dogs age, particularly in the brain, which aligns with human findings.

2. Hematological and Serum Biochemistry Parameters:

   • Key Parameters: These include complete blood counts (CBC) and various serum chemistry parameters like creatinine, glucose, total bilirubin, calcium, inorganic phosphorus, total protein, sodium, etc.

   • Changes Over Time: In middle-sized dogs, notable changes were observed in MCV, MPV, creatinine, glucose, and other serum chemistry parameters. In large-sized dogs, significant changes were noticed in glucose and total protein levels between younger and older dogs.

   • Early vs. Later Life Values: Younger dogs tend to have higher MCV, MPV, and glucose levels, while older dogs may show increased total bilirubin, calcium, and inorganic phosphorus levels.

3. Growth Hormone (GH) and Insulin Growth Factor-1 (IGF-1) Levels:

   • Role in Aging: GH and IGF-1 are considered crucial in regulating the aging process. Their levels have been shown to decline with age and are associated with functional changes during aging.

   • Changes Over Time: Both GH and IGF-1 levels are significantly higher in younger dogs compared to older ones. This is consistent across different sizes of dogs.

   • Early vs. Later Life Values: Younger dogs exhibit higher concentrations of GH and IGF-1, which decrease as the dogs age, suggesting their involvement in the aging process.

Implications for Longevity: Monitoring these biomarkers provides a comprehensive view of a dog's physiological aging process. By understanding the changes in CDKN2A gene expression, hematological and serum biochemistry parameters, and hormone levels like GH and IGF-1, we can better assess the health status and aging process in dogs. This insight is crucial for early detection of age-related diseases, implementing preventative health measures, and enhancing the overall longevity and quality of life for our canine companions. Regular veterinary check-ups that include these biomarker evaluations are recommended to track and maintain the health and longevity of dogs effectively.

Sources: J Vet Sci | Frontiers in Vet Science

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