Human Longevity, Inc. adds ClearNote Health’s Avantect pancreatic cancer test to its executive health program. It combines epigenomic analysis of 5hmC markers in cell-free DNA with whole genome sequencing and advanced MRI imaging to detect early-stage pancreatic cancer in high-risk clients.
Key points
Avantect test profiles 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC) markers in cell-free DNA to flag early pancreatic tumors.
Whole genome sequencing uncovers genetic predispositions and structural changes across more than three billion base pairs.
Dynamic contrast and diffusion-weighted MRI provide high-resolution pancreatic visualization for comprehensive screening.
Why it matters:
Integrating epigenomic biomarkers with genome sequencing and MRI could revolutionize early cancer detection, enabling life-extending interventions.
Q&A
What is 5-hydroxymethylcytosine?
How does the Avantect test detect early pancreatic cancer?
Why combine genome sequencing with MRI imaging?
Who is considered high-risk for pancreatic cancer screening?
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Academy
Epigenomic Biomarkers and Longevity Science
Definition and Importance: Epigenomic biomarkers are chemical modifications to DNA or associated proteins that do not alter the genetic code but can affect gene expression. Unlike genetic mutations, epigenetic changes are reversible and responsive to environmental and lifestyle factors. In longevity science, tracking epigenetic markers helps researchers understand aging processes, identify early signs of age-related disease, and develop interventions that may slow or reverse biological aging. Researchers measure epigenetic clocks like Horvath’s clock based on DNA methylation to estimate biological age, offering a molecular readout of healthspan.
5-Hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC) in Disease Detection
In the human genome, 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC) is an oxidized form of the more common 5-methylcytosine. It is enriched in active regions of the genome and reflects dynamic changes in cell states. Detecting 5hmC patterns in cell-free DNA from blood samples enables non-invasive monitoring of tissue health. Elevated or aberrant 5hmC signatures can signal early tumor development, making it a powerful biomarker for cancers such as pancreatic cancer. Studies show that 5hmC distribution patterns correlate with both healthy aging and early carcinogenesis, highlighting its dual role in longevity research.
Cell-Free DNA (cfDNA) and Non-Invasive Testing
Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) consists of short DNA fragments released into the bloodstream by dying cells. Analyzing cfDNA allows clinicians to sample molecular information from multiple tissues without invasive biopsies. Through targeted sequencing and epigenomic profiling of cfDNA, tests like Avantect can detect subtle epigenetic alterations indicative of disease. Because cfDNA reflects ongoing cellular turnover, longitudinal testing can reveal dynamic changes in health status over time. This approach is pivotal for early detection, monitoring treatment response, and guiding personalized interventions in longevity medicine.
Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) in Precision Health
Whole genome sequencing (WGS) decodes an individual’s complete DNA sequence, spanning more than three billion base pairs. In longevity and preventative medicine, WGS identifies inherited genetic variants that increase disease risk, such as mutations in BRCA2. When combined with epigenomic data and clinical imaging, WGS provides a comprehensive view of health at a molecular level. WGS data are processed using bioinformatics pipelines to filter variants and identify actionable insights for disease prevention. This integrated strategy enables customized prevention and screening plans tailored to each individual’s risk profile.
Advanced MRI Imaging for Comprehensive Screening
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) offers high-resolution anatomical views of internal organs without ionizing radiation. In early disease detection, contrast-enhanced and diffusion-weighted MRI sequences are optimized to visualize subtle tissue changes. When paired with genomic and epigenomic data, MRI confirms suspected lesions and refines risk assessments. Emerging techniques such as elastography and functional MRI may further improve tissue characterization in aging organs. This multimodal screening protocol enhances diagnostic accuracy and supports timely clinical interventions, an essential component in extending healthy human lifespan.
Applications and Future Directions in Longevity Science
Integrating epigenomic biomarkers, cfDNA analysis, WGS, and advanced imaging is transforming longevity science. Early detection of disease not only improves treatment outcomes but also opens avenues for preventive therapies that address aging mechanisms directly. Ongoing research aims to refine biomarker panels, reduce false positives, and scale these technologies for broader public health use. Researchers are also exploring integration with blood-based metabolomic and proteomic assays to build comprehensive molecular health profiles for longevity assessment. As costs decrease and analytic methods improve, multimodal molecular screening may become a standard in personalized healthcare and longevity interventions.