Histone Modifications in Aging: The Underlying Mechanisms and Implications

Background: Aging is characterized by time-dependent functional decline, which results in the reduced ability to cope with physiological challenges. The aging process can be affected by genetic factors, environment factors, epigenetic factors, and several stochastic factors. Epigenetic marker alteration during aging has been widely monitored and studied recently, since these epigenetic alterations are theoretically reversible. Objectives: In this review, we will elaborate on the connection between aging and histone modifications, mainly focusing on the major modification participated in aging and its underlying mechanism. We will also summarize the latest research progress of the potential and promising treatments or strategies that aim to reverse aging through the intervention of histone modifications. Conclusion: Histone post-translational modifications play a crucial role in epigenetic alteration during aging, among which histone methylation and histone acetylation are emerging as two prominent modification methods. These modifications can serve as the therapeutic targets in the pursuit of rejuvenation.