Accelerated epigenetic age and shortened telomere length based on DNA methylation in Nicolaides–Baraitser syndrome

Abstract

Abstract Background Nicolaides–Baraitser syndrome (NCBRS) is a rare disorder characterized by neurodevelopmental delays, seizures, and diverse physical characteristics. The DNA methylation (DNAm) profile in NCBRS is significantly different. DNAm is linked to the biological aging of cells and the health risks associated with biological aging. In this study, we examined changes in biological ages in NCBRS to provide insights into the prognosis and health risks of NCBRS. Methods We used a publicly available dataset to examine biological aging in NCBRS using DNAm‐based epigenetic ages, such as PhenoAge and GrimAge, as well as DNAm‐based estimator of telomere length (DNAmTL). We investigated 12 cases, clinically diagnosed as NCBRS, and 27 controls. Results Compared to controls, NCBRS cases exhibited significantly accelerated PhenoAge and GrimAge as well as significantly shortened DNAmTL. Conclusion These results suggest an acceleration of biological aging in NCBRS and provide insights into the prognosis and health risks of NCBRS.

Keywords

• DNA methylation
• epigenetic age
• Nicolaides–Baraitser syndrome
• telomere length