Genetic Variability in Age-Related Complex Traits and Human Longevity

Dear Colleagues,

In recent decades, the continuously increasing lifespan in western countries has made researchers focus on understanding the molecular mechanisms that underlie the ability of individuals to attain healthy and successful aging. Several studies indicate that healthy aging and longevity in humans are modulated by a combination of genetic and non-genetic factors. In particular, family studies demonstrated that about 25% of the variation in human longevity is due to genetic factors, while other variables, mainly related to lifestyles, can control the remaining 75%. In addition, recent epigenetic studies have shown that epigenetic modifications, modulated by both genetic background and lifestyle, are very sensitive to the aging process and can either be a biomarker or influence the rate and the quality of aging.

The aim of this Special Issue is to summarize the current understanding of the evaluation of both genetic and epigenetic determinants of human longevity in order to provide a broad and updated overview of this complex trait, to take stock of the situation and point to future directions in this field. Therefore, contributions by experts in the field in the form of research articles, reviews, communications, and concept papers are called for.

Dr. Francesco De Rango
Dr. Paolina Crocco
Dr. Patrizia D’Aquila
Guest Editors

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• genetics of aging
• epigenetics of aging
• human longevity
• health span
• aging biomarkers
• DNA methylation
• epigenetic modification
• nutrition