Study Maps Interventions Affecting Human Biological Aging

Researchers from Harvard Medical School and Tally Health have published the first comprehensive evidence map examining interventions that may influence human biological aging. The study, appearing in Frontiers in Genetics, analyzed 41 human studies encompassing pharmaceuticals, dietary interventions, exercise, supplements, and emerging therapies.

The review represents the largest synthesis of research using next-generation epigenetic aging clocks. Its aim is to enable researchers, clinicians, and the public to compare the evidence across interventions and identify gaps for future research. The work was led by Dr. Adiv Johnson, Chief Scientific Officer at Tally Health, and Dr. David Sinclair, Professor at Harvard Medical School.

Among interventions associated with favorable changes in epigenetic aging clocks were exercise, semaglutide, pitavastatin (a cholesterol-lowering medication), a plant-rich diet, caloric restriction, omega-3 fatty acids, and multivitamin supplementation. Conversely, numerous other widely discussed interventions showed no significant effects.

"The field of longevity science has expanded rapidly, but a comprehensive assessment of human evidence has been missing," said Dr. Sinclair. "This review helps clarify where the strongest signals exist and where additional research is needed."

Scientists emphasize that epigenetic aging clocks are investigational biomarkers and not direct measures of lifespan or healthspan. However, next-generation clocks have become increasingly important research tools due to their closer association with health outcomes and mortality risk.