Can the eyes provide a window into longevity?

Scientists have highlighted the potential of retinal scans as a non-invasive means of assessing cardiovascular health and biological ageing.

Writing in Science Advances, researchers from McMaster University, the University of Edinburgh, and the University of Dundee, outlined how they analysed retinal scans alongside genetic profiles and blood samples from 74,000 participants.

They found that those with simpler, less branched retinal vessels had a higher likelihood of cardiovascular disease. They also had biological signs of accelerated ageing, including increased inflammation.

Senior study author, Marie Pigeyre, of McMaster University’s department of medicine, highlighted: “by connecting retinal scans, genetics, and blood biomarkers, we have uncovered molecular pathways that help explain how ageing affects the vascular system.”

The researchers also identified key proteins that were associated with inflammation and vascular ageing – MMP12 and IgG-Fc receptor Iib.

Pigeyre noted that these proteins could be promising targets for potential treatments.

“Our findings point to potential drug targets for slowing vascular ageing, reducing the burden of cardiovascular diseases, and ultimately improving lifespan,” she said.