Streamlined Biomarker Analyses
- Epigenetic clock analysis: DNA methylation profiling can be performed using the Illumina Infinium EPICv2 (900K) Array or the new Xtra Array (EPICv2 and the MSA combined) which evaluates 1.5M methylation sites. Participants receive estimates from established biological aging algorithms, including Horvath, Hannum, PhenoAge, GrimAge, and DunedinPACE. Results are corrected for batch effects and differences in cellular composition.
- OSU_Senescence analysis: T-cell RNA is analyzed using a custom NanoString nCounter panel that quantifies CDKN2A (p16INK4a) along with markers of T-cell subset composition, activation, proliferation, and exhaustion. Data are normalized using internal controls, and investigators receive processed expression data and associated quality metrics.
- Peripheral blood subset analysis: Through collaboration with Ohio State’s Immune Monitoring and Discovery Platform (IMDP), we provide high-dimensional immunophenotyping using Cytek spectral flow cytometry and cell sorting platforms. Standardized antibody panels, automated sample processing, and bioinformatics support enable comprehensive analysis of age-related immune changes.
- Cytokine analysis: Multiplex cytokine and chemokine profiling can be performed using bead-based or ELISA-based platforms to assess systemic inflammatory and senescence-associated secretory phenotypes (SASP).
- qRT-PCR (p16INK4a): Targeted gene expression assays are available for quantification of senescence-associated transcripts, including CDKN2A (p16INK4a) and related biomarkers.
