Heterochromatin: an epigenetic point of view in aging

Exp Mol Med. 2020 Sep;52(9):1466-1474. doi: 10.1038/s12276-020-00497-4. Epub 2020 Sep 4.

Abstract

Aging is an inevitable process of life. Defined by progressive physiological and functional loss of tissues and organs, aging increases the risk of mortality for the organism. The aging process is affected by various factors, including genetic and epigenetic ones. Here, we review the chromatin-specific epigenetic changes that occur during normal (chronological) aging and in premature aging diseases. Taking advantage of the reversible nature of epigenetic modifications, we will also discuss possible lifespan expansion strategies through epigenetic modulation, which was considered irreversible until recently.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Intramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Age Factors
  • Aging / genetics*
  • Animals
  • Chromatin / genetics
  • Chromatin / metabolism
  • Epigenesis, Genetic*
  • Epigenomics* / methods
  • Gene Expression Regulation
  • Heterochromatin / genetics*
  • Heterochromatin / metabolism
  • Histones / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Longevity

Substances

  • Chromatin
  • Heterochromatin
  • Histones