MiRNA-3Age: a microRNA-based biological age model and its modulation by lifestyle and nutrition

Introduction: The extension of human longevity has intensified the search for
biomarkers that capture not only chronological age but also biological aging and
functional healthspan. Among molecular candidates, microRNAs (miRNAs) have
emerged as promising regulators and indicators of aging-related processes. In
this pilot study, we explored whether selected circulating miRNAs could serve as
potential biomarkers of biological age and lifestyle-associated aging dynamics.
Methods: Based on current literature, we focused on three miRNAs—miR-
24, miR-21, and miR-155—previously linked to inflammation, senescence, and
metabolic regulation. Capillary blood samples from a heterogeneous adult
cohort were analyzed using quantitative PCR. 1Ct values were integrated into
a composite “miRNA-3Age” model through multivariate regression analysis to
estimate biological age. Associations between lifestyle variables (diet, exercise,
stress, and smoking) and miRNA-based biological age were examined.
Results: The miRNA-3Age model predicted biological age with moderate
correlation to chronological age and revealed variability consistent with
individual health profiles. Participants with favorable lifestyle factors (e.g.,
frequent consumption of fish, whole grains, and green tea; regular exercise)
tended to exhibit lower miRNA-3Age estimates, whereas stress and smoking
were associated with higher predicted biological age.
Discussion: Our exploratory data suggest that integrating multiple miRNA signals
may enhance the sensitivity of biological age estimation compared to singlebiomarker approaches. However, variability within the small sample highlights
the need for larger, longitudinal datasets to confirm predictive validity and to
disentangle causal links between lifestyle, miRNA expression, and aging biology.
Conclusion: This pilot study supports the feasibility of miRNA-based biological
age modeling and identifies miR-24, miR-21, and miR-155 as promising
components of a composite biomarker framework. The miRNA-3Age model
provides a preliminary step toward a scalable, lifestyle-sensitive aging metric that
warrants validation in diverse populations.
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