The study provides the first direct evidence that the "biological clock" present in every cell of the body may actively contribute to age-related diseases rather than simply tracking the passage of time.

Researchers say the findings could pave the way for the development of new therapies aimed at preventing or slowing diseases associated with ageing, an increasingly important goal as global life expectancy continues to rise.

DNA accumulates chemical marks known as DNA methylation over time, which can accurately estimate a person's biological age. This DNA methylation clock progresses at different rates across mammals, ticking faster in species with shorter lifespans.

Until now, it remained unclear whether this biological clock merely reflected ageing or played a direct role in driving it.

Led by researchers at the University of Edinburgh, an international team identified a previously unknown accelerated ageing disorder, Heyn-Sproul-Jackson syndrome (HESJAS). Individuals with HESJAS develop DNA methylation changes at the same

Source: https://institute-genetics-cancer.ed.ac.uk/rare-ageing-disorder-links-biological-clock-to-disease