A Global Metabolomic And Lipidomic Landscape Of Human Plasma Across The Lifespan
Our bodies are constantly changing, and these changes are reflected in the tiny molecules circulating in our blood. A recent study delved into the “metabolome” and “lipidome” – essentially, the complete collection of small molecules (metabolites) and fats (lipids) in our plasma, the liquid part of our blood. Think of these as chemical fingerprints that reveal what’s happening inside us.
By analyzing blood samples from individuals ranging from newborns to 84-year-olds, scientists uncovered fascinating insights into how our metabolism shifts over time. They found that different life stages have unique metabolic signatures. For instance, newborns exhibit a distinct profile of certain fats called sphingosines. As we age, the picture changes, with older individuals showing higher levels of amino acids (the building blocks of proteins) and imbalances in various lipids.
Crucially, the research identified specific points in our lives where our metabolism undergoes significant reprogramming. By understanding these dynamic changes, the team was able to create an “aging clock” – a sophisticated tool that uses these blood-based chemical patterns to estimate a person’s biological age, which can differ from their chronological age. This breakthrough offers a deeper understanding of the aging process and could pave the way for new strategies to promote healthier aging and prevent age-related diseases.
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