Plasma proteomics links brain and immune system aging with healthspan and longevity

Abstract (PubMed)

We estimate the biological age of 11 organs using plasma proteomics data (2,916 proteins) from 44,498 individuals in the UK Biobank. Organ age estimates were sensitive to lifestyle factors and medications and were associated with future onset (within 17 years' follow-up) of a range of diseases, including heart failure, COPD, type 2 diabetes and Alzheimer's disease. Notably, having an especially aged brain posed a risk of Alzheimer's disease (HR=3.1) similar to carrying one APOE4 copy, whereas a youthful brain (HR=0.26) provided protection similar to two APOE2 copies. Accrual of aged organs progressively increased mortality risk (2-4 aged organs HR=2.3; 5-7 HR=4.5; 8+ HR=8.3), whereas youthful brains and immune systems were uniquely associated with longevity (youthful both HR=0.44 for mortality).