Influence of various factors on DNA methylation in a group of elderly individuals

In a group of 194 persons aged 54–86 years global DNA methylation was determined using Imprint DNA Quantification KitMDQ1 (Sigma-Aldrich). The association with several biochemical factors as serum glucose,serum creatinine and folic acid (determined by chemiluminescence) levels as well as with sex, age and cognitive status was estimated by multivariate stepwise regression analysis. The strongest association was stated with serum creatinine (P=0.0003), with serum folic acid (P=0.005) and with glucose (0.008) levels. The mechanisms and significance of these associations is discussed in view of human aging and age-connected diseases as atherosclerosis, diabetes and renal failure