As people age, errors sometimes occur in the stem cells within the bone marrow that produce immune cells. This is known as clonal haematopoiesis of indeterminate potential, or CHIP for short. These changes in the DNA lead to abnormalities in parts of the immune system. Researchers have observed that CHIP is associated with a more rapid physical decline. Consequently, it may play a significant role in the ageing process.
CHIP does not directly cause disease, but it can increase the risk of age-related conditions. Think, for example, of cardiovascular diseases or other inflammatory problems. These mutations in the DNA slowly accumulate and thereby affect overall health at an older age. It is an example of how changes at the cellular level can accelerate the ageing process.
Scientists are still investigating the extent to which DNA damage influences normal ageing. We already know that people whose bodies struggle to repair DNA age faster. CHIP is currently a major topic in research to gain more clarity on this. Researchers are looking at how these mutations can accelerate biological age, also known as epigenetic age.
For everyone who wants to age healthily, the concept of CHIP is interesting. It shows that maintaining healthy immune cells is important to combat aging and age-related diseases. The latest research insights could eventually help in developing treatments to limit the consequences of these mutations.
Source: Reason
