In the past decade, the cost of acquiring transcriptomic and proteomic data, as well as using machine learning techniques to derive insights from that data, has significantly decreased. This has led to an abundance of aging and longevity signatures generated by various research groups analyzing large databases. While these signatures aim to identify potential therapy targets, the impact of altering protein levels related to aging and longevity remains uncertain. Many changes may be mere side-effects of aging, with little downstream effect if reversed.
Research focusing on protein targets with anti-aging potential could offer valuable insights into extending human health span. A recent study utilized data from two large population-based cohorts to investigate the proteomic signature of longevity (defined as survival to 90 years of age). The study identified 211 significant proteins in the Cardiovascular Health Study cohort, with 105 proteins being replicated in the Age Gene/Environment Susceptibility-Reykjavik Study cohort. Strong associations were found for proteins like GDF-15, NT-pro-BNP, and angiopoietin-2, emphasizing their relevance in aging research. Interestingly, the study highlighted differences between proteins associated with overall survival and those linked to exceptional longevity, suggesting that findings from one outcome may not directly translate to the other. Additionally, the study revealed that physical and cognitive function could play a role in mediating the association between proteins and longevity.
