Metabolic ageing describes the energy system changes our body goes through, affecting how we use sugar and energy. A key biomarker called glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) provides insight into average blood sugar levels over the past three months, measuring the concentration of red blood cells bound to glucose. Even in non-diabetic individuals, rising HbA1c levels can indicate accelerated ageing of our metabolism, heart, and blood vessels. Studies link higher HbA1c levels, especially in older adults, to reduced physical activity and strength, so maintaining optimal blood sugar control is crucial for healthy ageing.

Heart ageing, a major factor in cardiovascular diseases, can be better understood and managed through monitoring C-reactive protein (CRP) levels. As a biomarker, CRP indicates systemic inflammation and plays a critical role in the progression of heart diseases, including coronary heart disease. It contributes to cardiac fibrosis and inflammation, leading to structural changes in the heart and increasing the risk of severe cardiovascular complications. Effectively monitoring CRP is therefore vital for addressing heart ageing and its associated cardiovascular challenges.

Lung ageing, a critical factor in susceptibility to respiratory diseases, is closely linked to the cumulative impact of smoking, measured in pack-years (PACKYRS). This factor, significant in lung disease development, affects gene expression, notably in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). In these individuals, down-regulated ageing-related gene expression leads to compromised inflammatory responses, crucial for combating infections and managing mucus secretion. Measuring PACKYRS is key to addressing lung health and ageing.

Leptin, a key biomarker linked to weight management and immune system ageing, plays a pivotal role in both appetite regulation and immune responses. Produced by fat cells, leptin not only controls hunger but also steers inflammatory cells in fighting infections. High leptin levels, often seen in obesity, can disrupt the balance of these cells, highlighting the intricate connection between body fat, immune function, and ageing. Thus, measuring leptin levels is essential for gaining insights into immune system ageing and overall health management.

Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) is a key biomarker in vascular ageing, involved in the breakdown of blood clots. Increased PAI-1 levels contribute to increased clots, as well as stiffness in blood vessels that impacts the transport and distribution of blood. This leads to increased risk of heart attacks or strokes. Managing PAI-1 levels through regular exercise and weight regulation is key to mitigating these risks and promoting vascular health and ageing..

Cellular ageing, marked by the reduced function and repair capacity of cells, is closely linked to Adrenomedullin (ADM) levels. ADM, a peptide involved in blood vessel formation and dilation, impacts blood flow efficiency, nutrient delivery, and waste removal. Elevated ADM levels are indicative of vascular ageing and associated cardiovascular conditions such as high blood pressure, heart failure, and arteriosclerosis. Monitoring ADM is crucial for understanding and optimising cellular health, highlighting its importance in ageing-related healthcare.

Monitoring kidney ageing involves key biomarkers like Cystatin C, a sensitive indicator of kidney function. Elevated levels of Cystatin C signify diminished kidney filtering capabilities, pointing to accelerated kidney ageing, often independent of traditional kidney disease risk factors but linked to increased cardiovascular risks and mortality. Regular assessment of Cystatin C levels is essential for early detection and management of kidney function and heart health issues.

Extracellular matrix (ECM) ageing, crucial for cellular support and integrity, is significantly influenced by the protein TIMP-1. Essential in wound healing and maintaining cellular structure, TIMP-1, when overexpressed, can hasten ECM ageing, a process exacerbated by factors like high blood pressure, obesity, and chronic inflammation. Balancing TIMP-1 levels is vital for optimal ECM function and tissue repair, playing a key role in enhancing longevity and mitigating age-related cellular deterioration.

Brain ageing, closely associated with cognitive health, is influenced by β2-microglobulin (B2M). This molecule plays a dual role: while essential for immune and kidney functions, elevated B2M levels are linked to cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s disease progression. Regular monitoring of B2M serves as an overall indicator of our brain’s ageing and cognitive health, offering opportunities for timely intervention and management of neurological health.

Growth Differentiation Factor 15 (GDF-15), a protein with various functions, plays a significant role in muscle ageing. As we age, our bodies produce more GDF-15, which serves as a biological marker indicating muscle ageing. Higher levels of GDF-15 are not only linked to the natural decline in muscle health but also associated with insulin resistance and appetite regulation in obesity. Remarkably, it also plays a role in cancer, with increased levels seen in metastatic cases. Understanding GDF-15’s impact offers hope for slowing down muscle ageing and maintaining strength as we grow older.