Improving age prediction using DNA methylation data

Transfer learning and uncertainty quantification in epigenetic clocks

['FUNDING_R21'] · RUTGERS BIOMEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES · NIH-10933453

This study is working on a new way to predict age more accurately using DNA information, especially for kids and teens, so that doctors and researchers can better understand how age affects health without needing personal details from individuals.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorRUTGERS BIOMEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES (nih funded)
Locations1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10933453 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research aims to enhance the accuracy of age prediction by developing a transfer learning framework that refines existing DNA methylation clocks. It focuses on using data from different populations, including children and adolescents, to improve the adaptability of these age-related biomarkers. The project will also introduce methods to quantify uncertainty in age predictions, ensuring that results are communicated effectively within the scientific community. By leveraging existing data without needing to access individual-level information, this approach seeks to provide more reliable age assessments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include children and adolescents, as well as adults who may benefit from improved age-related health assessments.

Not a fit: Patients who do not fall within the age ranges of 0-21 years or those who are not interested in age-related health assessments may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate age predictions, which may help in assessing age-related health risks and conditions.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using transfer learning for similar applications, indicating that this approach could yield significant advancements.

Where this research is happening

Newark, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.