Everything Epigenetics

Aging is a complex process, but have you ever wondered how it differs between men and women? In this week’s episode of the Everything Epigenetics podcast, Sara Hägg, an Associate Professor at Karolinska Institutet, and I discuss the fascinating differences in biological aging between sexes. We explore how genetics, hormones, and lifestyle choices contribute to aging disparities and what that means for longevity, disease risk, and overall health. You'll learn about: - How Sara Hägg became interested in aging research and what led her to study sex-specific differences - The major ways men and women age differently at the genetic, molecular, and epigenetic levels - The role of hormones like estrogen and testosterone in shaping the aging process - Why women typically live longer than men and what factors influence this disparity - How stress, diet, and environmental exposures impact aging uniquely for men and women - The latest epigenetic research uncovering biological sex differences in aging - How precision medicine may help tailor aging interventions based on sex-specific needs - Biomarkers of aging and how they reveal crucial insights into longevity and healthspan Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction to Everything Epigenetics Podcast 02:00 – Meet Sara Hägg: Her Background and Research Focus 06:30 – What Inspired Her to Study Aging and Sex Differences 10:00 – How Do Men and Women Age Differently? 15:30 – The Role of Hormones: Estrogen, Testosterone, and Aging 20:00 – Why Do Women Live Longer Than Men? 26:00 – Cellular and Epigenetic Differences in Male vs. Female Aging 30:00 – The Impact of Stress, Diet, and Environment on Aging 36:00 – Age-Related Diseases: Which Are More Common in Men vs. Women? 40:00 – How Biomarkers Help Predict Aging and Disease Risk 45:00 – The Future of Precision Medicine in Aging 50:00 – Misconceptions About How Men and Women Age 55:00 – Surprising Findings from Sara Hägg’s Research 58:00 – Closing Thoughts & How to Connect with Sara Hägg Support the show Where to Find Us: Instagram Twitter Facebook Follow us on: Apple Podcast Spotify YouTube Visit our website for more information and resources: everythingepigenetics.com Thank you for joining us at the Everything Epigenetics Podcast and remember you have control over your Epigenetics, so tune in next time to learn more about how to harness this knowledge for your benefit.

Epigenetics offers fascinating insights into how our genes are influenced by lifestyle and environmental factors. In this week’s episode of the Everything Epigenetics podcast, Dr. Raffaele Teperino and I delve into groundbreaking research on epigenetic inheritance and how reproductive fitness impacts long-term health. From the transfer of epigenetic material during conception to the role of paternal health in childhood obesity and diabetes risk, we discuss how these factors shape generational health outcomes. You'll learn about: • The role of epigenetics in reproductive fitness and how it goes beyond reproductive capacity. • How sperm and eggs transfer more than just DNA, influencing offspring development through epigenetic material. • The surprising impact of paternal health at conception on childhood obesity and metabolic disorders. • The importance of lifestyle changes before conception to improve offspring health. • Practical insights into integrating epigenetics into preventive medicine and public health. Chapters: 00:00 Welcome & Introduction 01:09 Dr. Teperino’s journey into epigenetics and its link to complex diseases. 03:56 Understanding reproductive fitness and its connection to epigenetics. 08:33 The transfer of epigenetic material from sperm to oocyte. 17:01 The role of paternal health in shaping offspring health risks. 24:07 Longitudinal studies on early-life risks of obesity and diabetes. 37:44 The overlooked role of seminal plasma in reproductive health. 42:00 The future of epigenetics: Neurodevelopmental disorders and preventive health. 45:32 Closing thoughts and where to connect with Dr. Teperino. Support the show Where to Find Us: Instagram Twitter Facebook Follow us on: Apple Podcast Spotify YouTube Visit our website for more information and resources: everythingepigenetics.com Thank you for joining us at the Everything Epigenetics Podcast and remember you have control over your Epigenetics, so tune in next time to learn more about how to harness this knowledge for your benefit.

DNA methylation, a cornerstone of epigenetic research, is vital for understanding gene regulation and its implications in health and disease. In this week’s episode of the Everything Epigenetics podcast, I speak with David Goldberg and Nicole Renke about the latest advancements in DNA methylation tools, including Illumina's groundbreaking Methylation Screening Array (MSA). We explore the history and evolution of methylation microarrays, why they remain the gold standard for Epigenome-Wide Association Studies (EWAS), and the design process behind the MSA array. David and Nicole provide insight into the practical applications of these tools for research in aging, neurodegenerative disorders, and environmental exposures. You'll learn about: •⁠ ⁠What methylation microarrays are and why they’re essential for EWAS •⁠ ⁠The market need and vision for Illumina's new MSA array •⁠ ⁠Key features and benefits of the MSA array for researchers •⁠ ⁠The role of cell-specific methylation in advancing epigenetic studies •⁠ ⁠Insights into the technical and biological validation of the MSA array Chapters: 00:00 Welcome and Introduction 02:30 History of Methylation Microarrays 10:45 Applications of EWAS in Research 20:15 Unveiling the MSA Array: Vision and Design 35:00 Technical Validation and Biological Insights 45:30 Future Directions in DNA Methylation Research 50:00 Closing Remarks Support the show Where to Find Us: Instagram Twitter Facebook Follow us on: Apple Podcast Spotify YouTube Visit our website for more information and resources: everythingepigenetics.com Thank you for joining us at the Everything Epigenetics Podcast and remember you have control over your Epigenetics, so tune in next time to learn more about how to harness this knowledge for your benefit.

How can epigenetics revolutionize heart disease prevention? In this week’s episode of the Everything Epigenetics podcast, Dr. Meesha Dogan and I discuss the groundbreaking role of AI-driven epigenetics in cardiovascular medicine. Dr. Dogan shares her journey into the field, the life-changing potential of precision diagnostics, and the critical connection between lifestyle and heart health. You'll learn about: •⁠ ⁠How epigenetics determines heart disease risk beyond genetics. •⁠ ⁠The role of AI in identifying biomarkers and enabling earlier interventions. •⁠ ⁠Real-world applications of personalized treatment plans informed by epigenetic testing. •⁠ ⁠Why behavior changes, guided by dynamic DNA data, are key to long-term heart health. •⁠ ⁠The future of epigenetics in drug development and preventative medicine. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 03:00 Dr. Meesha Dogan’s journey into epigenetics and personalized health 10:00 How epigenetics informs heart disease risk and prevention 18:00 AI’s transformative role in cardiovascular diagnostics 26:00 Real-world applications: Precision CHD tests and success stories 35:00 Lifestyle interventions and the power of behavioral insights 45:00 The future of epigenetic research: Drug development and dynamic testing Support the show Where to Find Us: Instagram Twitter Facebook Follow us on: Apple Podcast Spotify YouTube Visit our website for more information and resources: everythingepigenetics.com Thank you for joining us at the Everything Epigenetics Podcast and remember you have control over your Epigenetics, so tune in next time to learn more about how to harness this knowledge for your benefit.

Reproductive longevity and fertility are topics that impact women disproportionately across the globe. In this week’s episode of the Everything Epigenetics podcast, Dr. Katherine Zagone and I discuss how epigenetics can unlock key insights into fertility, biological age, and reproductive health. Dr. Zagone shares her journey into the fertility world, her pioneering work at Clockwize, and how biological age plays a crucial role in fertility outcomes. You'll learn about: Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 02:00 State of Reproductive Longevity and Its Disproportionate Impact on Women 05:00 Dr. Katherine Zagone’s Journey into Fertility and Founding Clockwize 10:30 Biological Age vs. Chronological Age in Fertility 15:00 How Epigenetics Can Predict Fertility and Health Outcomes 20:00 The FAST Framework: Rewinding Your Biological Clock 25:00 Identifying and Reducing Exposure to Fertility Toxins 30:00 Innovations and Future Directions in Fertility Epigenetics 40:00 Success Stories and Real-World Impacts 50:00 How to Connect with Dr. Zagone and Learn More About Clockwize Support the show Where to Find Us: Instagram Twitter Facebook Follow us on: Apple Podcast Spotify YouTube Visit our website for more information and resources: everythingepigenetics.com Thank you for joining us at the Everything Epigenetics Podcast and remember you have control over your Epigenetics, so tune in next time to learn more about how to harness this knowledge for your benefit.

What does it take to live not just longer but healthier lives? In this week’s episode of the Everything Epigenetics podcast, Dr. Jamie Justice and I explore the groundbreaking research and initiatives shaping the future of healthy aging. From bridging the gap between lifespan and healthspan to revolutionary breakthroughs like the XPRIZE Healthspan prize, we dive deep into the science and innovations driving progress in geroscience. You'll learn about: Chapters: 00:00 Welcome and Introduction 02:30 What “healthy aging” means to Dr. Jamie Justice 07:15 Lifespan vs. Healthspan: Bridging the gap 15:40 Key factors influencing long-term healthspan 22:10 Overview of the XPRIZE Healthspan Prize 28:45 Promising innovations from XPRIZE participants 35:20 The SOLVE FSHD Bonus Prize and its impact 42:10 Future breakthroughs in geroscience and aging research 49:30 Where to connect with Dr. Jamie Justice Support the show Where to Find Us: Instagram Twitter Facebook Follow us on: Apple Podcast Spotify YouTube Visit our website for more information and resources: everythingepigenetics.com Thank you for joining us at the Everything Epigenetics Podcast and remember you have control over your Epigenetics, so tune in next time to learn more about how to harness this knowledge for your benefit.

In this week’s episode of the Everything Epigenetics podcast, Dr. Christopher Minteer, Nicholas Minteer, and I dive into the fascinating intersection of canine health, longevity, and epigenetics. We explore how their company, Woofgenix, is revolutionizing the field through cutting-edge research and innovative products that aim to extend the lifespan and healthspan of our beloved pets. From understanding the unique epigenetic processes in dogs to uncovering the secrets behind varying breed lifespans, this episode offers insights into how science is shaping a better future for our furry friends. You'll learn about: Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 03:00 Meet Dr. Christopher and Nicholas Minteer 09:00 Canine Epigenetics: Comparing Dogs and Humans 16:00 The Science Behind Longevity: Breed and Size Insights 24:00 Woofgenix: Research and Products Revolutionizing Dog Care 36:00 How to Support Canine Aging Research Support the show Where to Find Us: Instagram Twitter Facebook Follow us on: Apple Podcast Spotify YouTube Visit our website for more information and resources: everythingepigenetics.com Thank you for joining us at the Everything Epigenetics Podcast and remember you have control over your Epigenetics, so tune in next time to learn more about how to harness this knowledge for your benefit.

In this episode of Everything Epigenetics, host Hannah Went sits down with Dave Pascoe, a retired network security architect who’s redefining the way we think about aging. Despite being 62, Dave has been able to have a lower "biological age" and slow pace of aging, a testament to his dedication to health optimization, epigenetics, and biological tuning. Known for ranking among the top contenders in the Rejuvenation Olympics leaderboard, Dave’s journey offers invaluable insights into affordable and effective longevity practices. You'll learn about: Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction to Everything Epigenetics and Dave Pascoe 00:16 – Dave’s early experiences and what sparked his interest in health and wellness 02:01 – Rejuvenation Olympics and its goals 05:14 – Dave’s evening and morning routines supporting epigenetic health 08:50 – Dave’s “AHA” moment and lifestyle changes 12:33 – Biohacking techniques and tools for longevity 15:50 – Practical steps for longevity accessible to a broad audience 18:40 – Reflections on balancing stress, mindset, and communityJoin us as we explore practical longevity strategies and learn how you, too, can take control of your health journey! Support the show Where to Find Us: Instagram Twitter Facebook Follow us on: Apple Podcast Spotify YouTube Visit our website for more information and resources: everythingepigenetics.com Thank you for joining us at the Everything Epigenetics Podcast and remember you have control over your Epigenetics, so tune in next time to learn more about how to harness this knowledge for your benefit.

In this week's episode of the Everything Epigenetics podcast, Dr. Chiara Herzog and I talk about how epigenetics is making waves in the medical world and how it could change treatment. Translational scientist and research fellow Dr. Herzog provides insights from her role in the Biomarkers of Aging Consortium and her work on the TirolGESUND project, one of the largest multi-omic human lifestyle intervention trials to date. We investigate the potential applications of epigenetics in cancer detection, aging biomarkers, and preventive measures that could change the paradigm of healthcare from one that is reactive to one that is proactive. We also explore the fascinating potential of using epigenetic markers to anticipate disease before it manifests itself, particularly in the context of cancer research, and how this could impact the delivery of tailored healthcare. You'll learn about: Chapters: 00:00 Welcome and introduction 02:30 Dr. Herzog’s journey from neuroscience to epigenetics 05:40 Recent breakthroughs in epigenetic research 12:10 Epigenetics and cancer risk: promising findings 19:15 TirolGESUND study: setup, interventions, and what to expect 27:40 Why studying different cell types matters in epigenetics 32:00 Understanding the exposome and its impact on health 38:20 Future steps for advancing epigenetic biomarkers in healthcare 45:00 Exciting upcoming projects in epigenetics research Support the show Where to Find Us: Instagram Twitter Facebook Follow us on: Apple Podcast Spotify YouTube Visit our website for more information and resources: everythingepigenetics.com Thank you for joining us at the Everything Epigenetics Podcast and remember you have control over your Epigenetics, so tune in next time to learn more about how to harness this knowledge for your benefit.

In this week’s episode of the Everything Epigenetics podcast, Dr. Gabriel Fries and I discuss the fascinating intersections of epigenetics, aging, and psychiatric disorders. Dr. Fries, an Assistant Professor in Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at UTHealth, shares his groundbreaking research on the molecular underpinnings of mood disorders such as bipolar disorder and suicide risk. We dive into how psychiatric disorders are linked to accelerated aging, how drugs like lithium show promise in reversing these epigenetic changes, and the future of personalized medicine through pharmacoepigenetics. You'll learn about: Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction to Epigenetics and Psychiatry 03:08 – How Epigenetics Mediates Gene-Environment Interactions in Mental Health 06:07 – Epigenetic Aging in Psychiatric Disorders 09:20 – Exploring the Accelerated Aging in Bipolar Disorder and Suicide Risk 17:02 – The Power of Second-Generation Epigenetic Clocks (PhenoAge, GrimAge) 19:45 – What is DunedinPACE? The Pace of Aging and Psychiatric Disorders 23:10 – Lithium’s Anti-Aging Effects in Bipolar Disorder 32:00 – Future Directions: Personalized Medicine Through Pharmacoepigenetics 36:16 – Interventional Drug Trials and Preventing Epigenetic Aging 38:19 – Challenges in the Field and the Need for Longitudinal Studies 42:00 – Final Thoughts: What’s Next for Dr. Fries and His Research Support the show Where to Find Us: Instagram Twitter Facebook Follow us on: Apple Podcast Spotify YouTube Visit our website for more information and resources: everythingepigenetics.com Thank you for joining us at the Everything Epigenetics Podcast and remember you have control over your Epigenetics, so tune in next time to learn more about how to harness this knowledge for your benefit.

Recent research from the University of Chicago shows that only 14% of cancers in the U.S. are diagnosed after the patient had a recommended screening test. 57% of diagnosed cancers do not have screening tests and account for 70% of all cancer-related deaths. 86% of cancer cases still go undiagnosed after recommended screenings. ‍16M+ life years saved in the U.S. from early-detection screenings. I don't know about you, but everytime I read those stats, my jaw hits the floor. When it comes to cancer, early detection is key to saving lives. With 610,000+ cancer deaths in the U.S. each year, most of which stemming from cancer types with no FDA-approved screening options, new technology is making revolutionary strides in detecting cancers that have been previously undetectable in early stages. There are now new tools intended to be used complementary to established cancer screening assessments. However in some cases, especially for cancer types that have no previously established screening test and are notoriously hard to detect, it may be the only warning sign currently available for providers. In this week’s episode of the Everything Epigenetics podcast, Dr. Joshua Routh and I talk about just that. We discuss the rising cancer burden and the cutting-edge role epigenetics plays in revolutionizing early cancer detection. Dr. Routh, a molecular genetic pathologist and medical director at Precision Epigenomics, shares insights into how new diagnostics, such as Multi-Cancer Detection (MCD) tests, provide opportunities to catch cancers earlier than ever before. We also explore the technology behind these tests, their impact on patient outcomes, and what the future holds for epigenetics in diagnosing and treating cancer and other chronic diseases. You'll learn about: What to expect if you get a positive cancer result and how recurrence monitoring works. The broader future of epigenetics in treating conditions like heart disease and neurological disorders. Chapters: 00:10 - Introduction to Dr. Joshua Routh and His Career Journey 04:48 - The Growing Cancer Burden and Challenges in Screening 09:00 - How Epigenomics is Transforming Early Cancer Detection 13:12 - Multi-Cancer Detection Tests: What Are They? 18:22 - EPISEEK by Precision Epigenomics vs. Galleri: Comparing the Leading Tests 25:27 - Cancer Therapy Resistance and the Role of Epigenet Support the show Where to Find Us: Instagram Twitter Facebook Follow us on: Apple Podcast Spotify YouTube Visit our website for more information and resources: everythingepigenetics.com Thank you for joining us at the Everything Epigenetics Podcast and remember you have control over your Epigenetics, so tune in next time to learn more about how to harness this knowledge for your benefit.

In this week’s episode of the Everything Epigenetics podcast, I’m joined by Dr. Charles Breeze, an expert in computational epigenetics. We talk about his inspiring journey into the field of epigenetics, his trailblazing research on kidney function across diverse ethnic groups, and the innovative tools he's developed to push the boundaries of epigenetic research. Dr. Breeze shares how his fascination with the complex interaction between environmental and genetic factors shaped his path into epigenetics. This passion led him to focus on understanding why certain populations are at higher risk for diseases like chronic kidney disease. His work has uncovered insights into the disparities in kidney disease risk among different ethnic groups, shedding light on genetic and environmental factors that had previously been overlooked. To address the challenges of inclusivity and precision in epigenetic studies, Dr. Breeze developed specialized tools that enhance the accuracy of Epigenome-Wide Association Studies (EWAS). These tools aim to improve how we analyze the impact of genetics and environment on health, helping researchers study epigenetic patterns across populations more effectively. His contributions are making it easier to identify how factors like diet, stress, and pollution affect gene expression, paving the way for more inclusive and equitable health research. Dr. Breeze earned his Ph.D. in computational epigenetics and genomics from University College London, where he was a Marie Curie fellow. He has also worked at top institutions like the University of Oxford, the European Bioinformatics Institute, and the Altius Institute for Biomedical Sciences in Seattle. There, he led the analysis and creation of important mouse genome data. Dr. Breeze has developed bioinformatics tools like eFORGE and FORGE2, which help analyze data from studies on how genes and the environment affect health (EWAS and GWAS). Dr. Breeze is a member of the Encyclopedia of DNA Elements (ENCODE) and the International Human Epigenome Consortium (IHEC). You’ll learn about: - Dr. Breeze’s early interest in genomics, sparked by reading "Genome" by Matthew Ridley - His significant findings from the 2021 study titled “Epigenome-wide association study of kidney function identifies trans-ethnic and ethnic-specific loci,” which revealed ethnic disparities in kidney function - The challenges faced in epigenetic research due to the lack of diversity in reference data and how this impacts research outcomes - Proposed solutions to increase diversity in epigenomic data, including community involvement and targeted data generation - How his bioinformatics tools, eFORGE and FORGE2, assist researchers in understanding the complex data from EWAS and GWAS studies - His future research directions, including studies on kidney cancer and the expansion of pathway analysis tools Support the show Where to Find Us: Instagram Twitter Facebook Follow us on: Apple Podcast Spotify YouTube Visit our website for more information and resources: everythingepigenetics.com Thank you for joining us at the Everything Epigenetics Podcast and remember you have control over your Epigenetics, so tune in next time to learn more about how to harness this knowledge for your benefit.

Alzheimer’s disease is a devastating neurodegenerative condition that slowly erodes memory, cognitive function, and the ability to perform even the simplest tasks. It’s heartbreaking not only for those diagnosed but also for their loved ones as they watch a gradual loss of the person they knew. This is exactly how I felt in 2015 when I watched my grandmother be taken by this awful disease. The disease progresses as abnormal protein deposits (amyloid plaques and tau tangles) damage brain cells, leading to widespread brain shrinkage. Despite ongoing research, effective treatments remain limited, making Alzheimer’s one of the most challenging and impactful diseases today. However, new research is uncovering fresh perspectives on its underlying causes. One emerging view is that beyond the traditional focus on protein deposits, epigenetic changes might play a crucial role in driving the disease. In this week’s episode of the Everything Epigenetics podcast, Dr. Katz and I focus on his labs surprising journey that led them to believe that Alzheimer’s disease is an epigenetic disease resulting from a loss of cell fate. Dr. Katz anticipates that his lab’s work will advance drug discovery through epigenetics. If no other company exploits the work, his will, even though it currently exists only on paper. “Most of the epigenetic drugs are cancer therapies,” he notes. “More recently, drugs that target epigenetic enzymes have been pursued for a wide range of diseases, ranging from muscular dystrophies to Alzheimer’s disease. Going forward, it will be exciting to see if epigenetic-based therapies prove to be effective against other diseases.” You’ll learn about: Caenorhabditis elegansChapters: 00:00 Introduction to Epigenetics 07:50 Hannah’s Insights on Recent Research 15:55 David’s Perspective on Practical Applications 25:18 The Impact of Lifestyle on Epigen Support the show Where to Find Us: Instagram Twitter Facebook Follow us on: Apple Podcast Spotify YouTube Visit our website for more information and resources: everythingepigenetics.com Thank you for joining us at the Everything Epigenetics Podcast and remember you have control over your Epigenetics, so tune in next time to learn more about how to harness this knowledge for your benefit.

In this week’s episode of the Everything Epigenetics podcast, Hannah Went sits down with Alex Trapp, a computational biologist deeply involved in aging research. The two explore the cutting-edge development of single-cell epigenetic clocks and their potential applications in the field of longevity science. Alex shares his journey from experimental biology to computational approaches and discusses the significant implications of understanding aging at the single-cell level. He also provides insights into his work at Retro Biosciences, a company focused on extending healthy human lifespan through innovative therapies. In this episode of Everything Epigenetics, you’ll learn about: • The development and significance of single-cell epigenetic clocks • Differences between bulk tissue and single-cell epigenetic sequencing methods • Applications of single-cell aging clocks in understanding and potentially reversing aging • Challenges and future directions in single-cell epigenetic research • The exciting work being done at Retro Biosciences, including advancements in T-cell rejuvenation and plasma therapeutics Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 03:15 Alex Trapp's journey in the aging research field 07:35 Overview of epigenetic clocks and single-cell approaches 17:38 Development and challenges of the single-cell aging clock 22:41 Applications and implications of single-cell clocks in aging research 35:57 Future directions in epigenetic research 42:55 Alex's work at Retro Biosciences and its potential impact Review Alex’s Study: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36211119/ Support the Show: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2084028/support Support the show Where to Find Us: Instagram Twitter Facebook Follow us on: Apple Podcast Spotify YouTube Visit our website for more information and resources: everythingepigenetics.com Thank you for joining us at the Everything Epigenetics Podcast and remember you have control over your Epigenetics, so tune in next time to learn more about how to harness this knowledge for your benefit.

The development and application of epigenetic predictors of health is revolutionizing the way we understand and approach personalized medicine. These predictors, derived from analyzing DNA methylation patterns, provide a powerful tool for assessing biological age, disease risk, and overall health. By leveraging advanced machine learning and AI, researchers can identify specific epigenetic markers that correlate with various health outcomes, allowing for early detection and tailored interventions. The ability to accurately predict health outcomes and aging processes not only offers individuals a roadmap for healthier living but also promises to reduce healthcare costs by focusing on prevention rather than treatment. In this week’s episode of the Everything Epigenetics podcast, Dr. Varun Dwaraka and I discuss practical applications of epigenetics, such as the development of epigenetic clocks for measuring biological age. We explain the concept of epigenetic clocks and the different generations of these clocks, emphasizing the importance of reproducibility and association with clinical outcomes. Varun also introduces how machine learning and AI are used to create Epigenetic Biomarker Proxies (EBPs), developed in collaboration by TruDiagnostic and Harvard, which can provide detailed health insights from a single blood sample. We also cover the significant implications of EBPs, including cost reduction and personalized supplement recommendations from a single blood sample. In addition, we compare methylation risk scores to epigenetic biomarker proxies, providing a clear understanding of their differences and applications. Lastly, Varun shares current exciting areas of discovery and ongoing projects, offering a glimpse into the future of epigenetic research and its potential to revolutionize personalized health. Varun is currently the Head of Bioinformatics at TruDiagnostic and sits on the faculty at the Geneva College of Longevity Science. In this episode of Everything Epigenetics, you’ll learn about: Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Commendation 05:21 The Growth of Epigenetics 11:41 Defining Epigenetic Clocks 14:08 Best Bioinformatic Practices 24:55 Stochastic Aging vs Dynamic Aging 26:49 Best Practices in Bioinforma Support the show Where to Find Us: Instagram Twitter Facebook Follow us on: Apple Podcast Spotify YouTube Visit our website for more information and resources: everythingepigenetics.com Thank you for joining us at the Everything Epigenetics Podcast and remember you have control over your Epigenetics, so tune in next time to learn more about how to harness this knowledge for your benefit.

In Europe, people aged 65 typically spend about half of their remaining years managing disabilities. Much of the existing research on aging has predominantly focused on identifying "cures" rather than exploring strategies for healthy aging. Dr. Esther Walton’s is breaking new frontiers with the unconventional approach that aging begins at birth and should be approached through a comprehensive life course strategy that integrates studies of early development, adult psychiatry, and mental aging in later life. Her research program, BrainHealth, aims to fundamentally redefine, enhance, and distinguish mental aging throughout the lifespan by examining patterns of mental aging within the innovative framework of 'brain health'. With the BrainHealth program, Esther hopes to: 1) characterize brain health from birth to old age by establishing robust predictors of brain health in childhood and adolescence 2) improve brain health by identifying modifiable protective factors to enhance brain health across the life course 3) differentiate between physical and mental aging by developing a tissue-specific mouse model of lifelong brain health. If successful, this program will revolutionize the approach to healthy aging by permitting the early identification and alteration of unhealthy aging trajectories - a key societal challenge of our time. In this week’s Everything Epigenetics podcast episode, we explore the fascinating intersection of brain health and epigenetics with Dr. Esther Walton, Associate Professor in Clinical Psychology at the University of Bath. Dr. Walton discusses her pioneering work on DNA methylation and its crucial role in brain development and mental health. This is especially exciting because little is known about the extent to which DNA methylation is linked to individual differences in the brain itself, and how these associations may unfold across development - a time of life when many mental disorders emerge. By combining epigenetics with advanced neuroimaging techniques, her studies continue to uncover how these epigenetic modifications affect brain structure and function over time. In this episode of Everything Epigenetics, you’ll learn about: Support the show Where to Find Us: Instagram Twitter Facebook Follow us on: Apple Podcast Spotify YouTube Visit our website for more information and resources: everythingepigenetics.com Thank you for joining us at the Everything Epigenetics Podcast and remember you have control over your Epigenetics, so tune in next time to learn more about how to harness this knowledge for your benefit.

The immune system adapts to various threats through innate and adaptive responses, utilizing epigenetic mechanisms to regulate gene activity without changing DNA sequences. These mechanisms help maintain long-term immune phenotypes, allowing the immune system to respond to changing environments. In innate immunity, epigenetic changes enable immediate pathogen responses, while in adaptive immunity, they create memory cells that remember past infections for quicker, stronger reactions. This adaptability ensures ongoing protection and highlights the potential for developing targeted therapies to modulate the immune response, offering more effective treatments for various diseases. In this week’s episode of the Everything Epigenetics podcast, join me and Dr. Andrew DiNardo as we explore the complexities of the immune system. Dr. DiNardo shares his journey from internal medicine to addressing global health issues like tuberculosis and his latest research on the impact of school deworming initiatives on vaccine efficacy in children with schistosomiasis. We dive into how the immune system interacts with DNA, focusing on CD4 T cells and DNA methylation, and discuss Dr. DiNardo's pioneering use of single-cell technology to study immune responses. This technology highlights both the benefits of vaccines and the risks posed by severe infections to our genetic makeup. Our conversation also covers the potential of manipulating these immune responses to develop new treatments and the challenges posed by high-resolution analyses in this field. Wrapping up, we reflect on the dual role of mTOR in modulating the immune response and influencing DNA methylation patterns. Dr. DiNardo's insights emphasize the complex interplay between genetic regulation and immune function, emphasizing the need for comprehensive data repositories to advance infectious disease research. In this episode of Everything Epigenetics, you’ll learn about: Where to find Andrew: Baylor College of Medicine profile Andrew attended Wayne State School of Medicine from 2003 to 2007. His internship and residency in global health and Internal medicine was completed at t Support the show Where to Find Us: Instagram Twitter Facebook Follow us on: Apple Podcast Spotify YouTube Visit our website for more information and resources: everythingepigenetics.com Thank you for joining us at the Everything Epigenetics Podcast and remember you have control over your Epigenetics, so tune in next time to learn more about how to harness this knowledge for your benefit.

In this week’s episode of Everything Epigenetics, I am joined by Dr. Janitza Montalvo-Ortiz, Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at Yale University, who shares her journey into the world of epigenetics and psychiatry. Dr. Montalvo-Ortiz explains the pivotal role of epigenetics in understanding the genetic and environmental factors contributing to psychiatric disorders and emphasizes the importance of trauma exposure in shaping mental health outcomes. Our discussion covers her research into the epigenetic mechanisms behind psychiatric conditions, particularly in underserved populations like Latin Americans and military veterans. She highlights the need for multi-omic approaches to fully unravel the complex interplay between genes, epigenetics, and the environment. Dr. Montalvo-Ortiz also discusses the development of epigenetic clocks like GrimAge, which assesses mortality risk and incorporates factors like DNA methylation changes due to smoking. Furthermore, Dr. Montalvo-Ortiz shares insights from her studies on how lifestyle and psychosocial factors can influence aging at the cellular level, and dives into the specific epigenomic differences in individuals with nicotine dependence. She concludes with her research on the epigenetic signatures of PTSD in US military veterans, spotlighting the potential for targeted treatments. Join us as we explore these transformative insights, which not only deepen our understanding of mental health disorders but also open doors to innovative treatment strategies. In this episode of Everything Epigenetics, you’ll learn about: - What epigenetics means to Janitza - Janitza’s journey - Genetic and epigenetic mechanisms associated with psychiatry disorders - How we can use epigenetics as a tool to learn more about psychiatric disorders - Using multi-omics datasets (genomics, methylomics, transcriptomics, proteomics) to better understand the underlying mechanisms and identify predictors or biomarkers for these disorders - Why it’s important to look at underserved populations and how we can extend these findings to the general population - Psychosocial factors associated with GrimAge in Male US Military Veterans - Epigenomic differences between smoking and nicotine dependence in a veterans - Epigenetics in posttraumatic stress disorder in U.S. military veterans - Current challenges in epigenetics - What’s next for Janitza Where to find Janitza: Yale School Medicine Profile LinkedIn Twitter Support the show Where to Find Us: Instagram Twitter Facebook Follow us on: Apple Podcast Spotify YouTube Visit our website for more information and resources: everythingepigenetics.com Thank you for joining us at the Everything Epigenetics Podcast and remember you have control over your Epigenetics, so tune in next time to learn more about how to harness this knowledge for your benefit.

We are entering a new phase of understanding how our social environments affect our biology, particularly how they influence the genes involved in brain development and function. This knowledge helps us see how experiences like stress, trauma, and isolation can cause changes at the molecular level that may increase the risk of mental disorders. On the other hand, we're also exploring how positive experiences induced by psychedelics, which create feelings of unity and insight, might lead to beneficial molecular changes. Most mental health disorders, whether psychiatric, neurodevelopmental, or neurodegenerative, arise from both genetic and environmental factors. Recognizing this, research now combines studies of these exposures with molecular biology to better understand how our behaviors and environments can directly impact our genetic expression, shedding light on why some people are more vulnerable to mental health issues. This field, known as behavioral epigenetics, explores how our experiences can shape our genetic makeup and influence our brain health. In this week’s episode of the Everything Epigenetics podcast, Dr. Candace Lewis shares her insights into epigenetics, discussing how early life stress can affect gene regulation and how attachment and societal influences shape our biology. The conversation then turns to psychedelics, with Candace outlining the history and ongoing research into their potential as a therapeutic tool for mental health disorders. She explains the mechanics of psychedelic-assisted therapy and the importance of understanding its broader context. We then chat about the therapeutic possibilities of psychedelics and their role in epigenetics, and the importance of creating a safe environment for individuals to explore their emotions and experiences with psychedelics. Candace draws parallels between acute stress and the psychedelic state, suggesting that research into psychedelics could reveal important information about the epigenetic changes they induce. Lastly, Candace also mentions the Psychedelic Genome Project and the significance of collecting data to advance the field. Candace is currently the director of the BEAR Lab at Arizona State University aiming to acknowledge the harm caused by psychology and genetic sciences on minorly groups, increase diversity in training and study cohorts, and change policy to improve mental health for all. In this episode of Everything Epigenetics, you’ll learn about: The Brain, Epigenetics, & Altered states Research (BEAR) labWhat is up Support the show Where to Find Us: Instagram Twitter Facebook Follow us on: Apple Podcast Spotify YouTube Visit our website for more information and resources: everythingepigenetics.com Thank you for joining us at the Everything Epigenetics Podcast and remember you have control over your Epigenetics, so tune in next time to learn more about how to harness this knowledge for your benefit.

Personalized nutrition tailors dietary recommendations to an individual's unique biological needs, factoring in genetics, lifestyle, and health conditions to optimize health, prevent disease, and maintain overall well-being. Central to this approach is the role of epigenetics, which studies changes in gene expression that do not involve alterations to the DNA sequence but can be influenced by external factors such as diet. For instance, certain nutrients can affect DNA methylation patterns or modify histone structures, which in turn can activate or repress specific genes. Understanding how diet impacts these epigenetic changes is crucial for determining how an individual’s gene expression can be influenced by their dietary choices. This knowledge allows for the development of tailored dietary advice that can promote better health outcomes based on an individual's specific genetic and epigenetic profile, making personalized nutrition a powerful tool in modern healthcare. In this week’s episode of the Everything Epigenetics podcast, I discuss the connection between epigenetics and nutrition with Dr. Lucia Aronica. We explore how lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, stress, sleep, and environmental toxins influence epigenetic modifications. Dr. Aronica highlights the role of epinutrients, such as methyl donors and phytochemicals, in gene regulation and emphasizes key nutrients like folate and choline that are essential for methylation reactions. Our conversation also covers nutrigenetics, examining how genetic variations affect individual dietary responses, while cautioning against relying solely on genetic testing for nutritional guidance. Dr. Aronica advocates for integrating nutri-genetics with other health markers to develop personalized nutrition plans. We also discuss findings from the DIETFITS study about the impacts of low carb and low fat diets on gene activity and epigenetic modifications, and insights from the "You Are What You Eat" documentary series. This discussion further highlights the significant influence of diet on epigenetic aging and overall health. In this episode of Everything Epigenetics, you’ll learn about: Support the show Where to Find Us: Instagram Twitter Facebook Follow us on: Apple Podcast Spotify YouTube Visit our website for more information and resources: everythingepigenetics.com Thank you for joining us at the Everything Epigenetics Podcast and remember you have control over your Epigenetics, so tune in next time to learn more about how to harness this knowledge for your benefit.