Super Agers: An Evidence-Based Approach to Longevity

Aging clocks are biomarkers—often based on DNA methylation patterns, proteins, or metabolites—that estimate biological rather than chronological age. In Super Agers, Topol discusses how epigenetic clocks like PhenoAge and GrimAge provide insight into whether someone is aging faster or slower than their years suggest. While not yet clinically validated, they function as surrogate endpoints in research and symbolize the shift toward quantifying aging as a measurable, modifiable process.

Caloric restriction refers to reducing daily caloric intake without malnutrition, a strategy shown to extend lifespan in animal models. Topol notes that human evidence is more modest, with studies linking moderate restriction (12–14%) to reduced biological age and improved immune function. The concept represents one of the oldest and most studied interventions in the science of longevity.

Centenarians—people who live to age 100 or beyond—serve as both statistical markers and living case studies of longevity. Topol highlights projections that the number of US centenarians will increase dramatically by 2060, reflecting demographic changes rather than biomedical breakthroughs. Their example illustrates the possibility of extended lifespan and underscores persistent challenges in extending health span.