The application of epigenetic clocks in degenerative musculoskeletal diseases: A systematic review
Authors' conclusion
This systematic review of 14 clinical studies establishes epigenetic clocks as promising biomarkers for degenerative musculoskeletal diseases.
Study context
- Population
- Observational studies of epigenetic clocks in degenerative musculoskeletal diseases (e.g., OA, osteoporosis); PubMed, PMC, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, inception to December 202414 studies
- Outcome
- Associations of epigenetic clocks with degenerative musculoskeletal diseases
Methodological detailscase-control, cross-sectional and cohort studies included
- Case-control, cross-sectional and cohort studies included
Pooled result
As reported in the abstract
- Epigenetic clocks identified (based on cartilage, bone and blood biomarkers)
- 8
- DunedinPACE vs chronic low back pain severity, r
- 0.39-0.45
- Horvath's clock: tissue-specific epigenetic aging in OA cartilage, ΔAge
- 3.7 years
- GrimAge vs chronic pain (strongest correlations), ρ
- 0.47
- GrimAge mediated socioeconomic influences, β
- 0.81
Original publication
The application of epigenetic clocks in degenerative musculoskeletal diseases: A systematic review. Osteoarthritis Cartilage. Published 21 May 2025. doi:10.
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