The role of epigenetics in cognitive ageing. (7th August 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Mather, Karen A.; Kwok, John B.; Armstrong, Nicola; Sachdev, Perminder S.
• Is Part Of: International journal of geriatric psychiatry. Volume 29:Number 11(2014:Nov.)
• Page Start: 1162
• Page End: 1171
• Publication Date: 2014-08-07
• Subjects: Geriatric psychiatry -- Periodicals; Geriatric Psychiatry -- Periodicals; 618.97689
• DOI: 10.1002/gps.4183
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0885-6230

Abstract

<abstract abstract-type="main"> <title> <x xml:space="preserve">Abstract</x> </title> <sec id="gps4183-sec-0001" sec-type="section"> <title>Objective</title> <p>As the population is ageing, a better understanding of the underlying causes of age‐related cognitive decline (cognitive ageing) is required. Epigenetic dysregulation is proposed as one of the underlying mechanisms for cognitive ageing. We review the current knowledge on epigenetics and cognitive ageing and appraise the potential of epigenetic preventative and therapeutic interventions.</p> </sec> <sec id="gps4183-sec-0002" sec-type="section"> <title>Design</title> <p>Articles on cognitive ageing and epigenetics in English were identified.</p> </sec> <sec id="gps4183-sec-0003" sec-type="section"> <title>Results</title> <p>Epigenetic dysregulation occurs with cognitive ageing, with changes in histone post‐translational modifications, DNA methylation and non‐coding RNA reported. However, human studies are lacking, with most being cross‐sectional using peripheral blood samples. Pharmacological and lifestyle factors have the potential to change aberrant epigenetic profiles; but few studies have examined this in relation to cognitive ageing.</p> </sec> <sec id="gps4183-sec-0004" sec-type="section"> <title>Conclusions</title> <p>The relationship between epigenetic modifications and cognitive ageing is only beginning to be investigated. Epigenetic dysregulation appears to be an important feature in cognitive ageing, but whether it is an epiphenomenon or a causal factor remains to be elucidated. Clarification of the relationship between epigenetic profiles of different cell types is essential and would determine whether epigenetic marks of peripheral tissues can be used as a proxy for changes occurring in the brain. The use of lifestyle and pharmacological interventions to improve cognitive performance and quality of life of older adults needs more investigation. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.</p> </sec> </abstract>