The Clock

Your biological age, as opposed to your chronological age, is the age your body resembles or functions at. It can be calculated by measuring your levels of cell damage.

We all have family members, friends and colleagues who do not look their age. Some people look a lot older than the age on their passports, others a lot younger. Scientists have now found a way to measure the actual rate of ageing and how old your physical body really is.

Long answer short:
There are several types of biological age tests available, each with its own methodology.

Our biological age test—The Clock—is a straightforward saliva-based epigenetic test that measures your biological age by analyzing DNA methylation levels. DNA methylation, a key part of epigenetics, acts as an "on" and "off" switch for your genes, controlled by chemical tags added or removed over time. By studying these changes in your spit, we compare your results to averages and determine how your body is aging compared to your peers.

We chose this approach because it offers a cost-effective solution without compromising accuracy. If you’re looking for an extensive array of complex biomarkers, this test might not be for you. But if you want a simple, reliable, and straightforward read on your biological age, you’re in the right place!

Short answer long:
To determine your true biological age, scientists at our partner lab in the US measure the levels of DNA methylation within specific regions of your DNA.

DNA methylation occurs on cytosine residues, particularly in small regions known as CpG islands, which are usually clustered around genes and can influence their activity. Methylation of CpG islands by DNA methyltransferases has been associated with gene inactivation and plays a significant role in the development of cancer and cellular aging. Reversing DNA methylation at these sites is a potential therapeutic strategy, as it may restore gene expression and improve the organism's physiological function.

The methylation status of a DNA sequence is most accurately determined using bisulfite conversion. This process converts unmethylated cytosine residues into uracil, while leaving methylated cytosines unchanged. As a result, bisulfite treatment creates distinct DNA sequences for methylated and unmethylated DNA, which can be easily detected through sequencing.

In our lab, we sequence nine specific regions of your DNA to assess their methylation levels. This data is then compared to established benchmarks, and our algorithm calculates your biological age—reflecting how old your body is at the cellular level.

Please note:
- We do not sequence your entire genome
- We do not provide raw data in the biological age report
- Once the test is completed, we delete all your biological material and DNA data

Your report will offer an assessment of your biological age, revealing how your body is ageing at a cellular level compared to your chronological age. It will also include general insights on how you can slow down your ageing process. These suggestions are based on scientific research and provide actionable steps to help reduce your biological age. Additionally, the report will explain the science behind the test, particularly how DNA methylation is used to determine your biological age, giving you a deeper understanding of the mechanisms influencing your ageing process.

You can expect results within 1 to 2 weeks after our US partner lab receives your sample and questionnaire. While delays are rare, we’ll always keep you in the loop and ensure you’re satisfied with our service.

No, don’t eat, drink (except water), smoke, chew gum, brush your teeth, or use mouthwash for at least 30 minutes before collecting your sample. Stay hydrated for the best results. Collect your saliva in a clean spoon, then transfer it to the collection kit. Let it dry for at least 40 minutes. The filter paper preserves your DNA for up to a year at room temperature—but don't worry, the lab destroys it after your results are in!

We offer free pick-up in Singapore but customers in other countries will need to arrange and pay for their own local postal or courier service to the US.

In any case, we’ll send you clear instructions based on your location. If you have any questions, just drop us a line at care@foryouth.co.