Researchers have developed a score that measures biological age based on urine metabolites. In contrast to chronological age, it takes into account influences such as genetics, lifestyle and environment. The method is based on NMR spectroscopy and could be used for personalized medicine and risk assessment.

The team from the University Medical Center Greifswald and Oldenburg analyzed urine samples from the study on health in Pomerania. In a cohort of over 4000 people, the metabolic age score was created using machine learning by regressing chronological age to 150 metabolites. The residual part, referred to as delta age, shows deviant aging: positive for accelerated aging, negative for delayed aging.

In an independent validation cohort, the score correlated with chronological age. It had significant associations with diseases: Higher delta age was associated with diabetes, high blood pressure medication, heart attack, stroke and kidney dysfunction. Continuous markers such as HbA1c showed similar effects, while HDL cholesterol was associated with younger age.

Longitudinal analyses revealed individual aging trajectories: Hypertension sufferers had accelerated metabolic aging, healthy people had delayed aging. Survival analyses showed a higher probability of death with high delta age.

The score provides a non-invasive, stable measure of aging that reflects health status and disease risks. Future work will refine models and test applications in prevention and clinics.

Important details can be seen as posters at the DKLM 2025 in Leipzig. Interested media can receive the poster in advance in compliance with the strict embargo period of 23.10.2025 / 00:01 and presentation of a valid press card. To do so, send us your enquiry including a copy of your press card to: redaktion@medlabportal.de

The German Congress of Laboratory Medicine (DKLM) 2025 promises exciting insights into the interface between science and clinical practice. Under the motto “Science for Precision Medicine”, the German Society for Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (DGKL) and the Umbrella Association for Technologists and Analysts in Medicine Germany (DVTA) invite experts from research, clinics and industry to meet on October 23 and 24 at the Congress Center Leipzig (CCL). The two-day event is aimed at laboratory physicians, biomedical analysts and decision-makers to discuss current advances in diagnostics and strengthen networks. The ceremonial opening of the congress will take place on 22 October with the presentation of the MedLabAwards in the Salles de Pologne.

Editor: X-Press Journalistenbüro GbR

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