#CheekAge, a next-generation epigenetic buccal clock, is predictive of mortality in human blood

While earlier first-generation epigenetic aging clocks were trained to estimate chronological age as accurately as possible, more recent next-generation clocks incorporate DNA methylation information more pertinent to health, lifestyle, and/or outcomes. Recently, we produced a non-invasive next-generation epigenetic clock trained using Infinium MethylationEPIC data from more than 8,000 diverse adult buccal samples. While this clock… Continue reading #CheekAge, a next-generation epigenetic buccal clock, is predictive of mortality in human blood

Analytical Performance of COVID-19 Detection Methods (RT-PCR): Scientific and Societal Concerns

Background. Health and social management of the SARS-CoV-2 epidemic, responsible for the COVID-19 disease, requires both screening tools and diagnostic procedures. Reliable screening tests aim at identifying (truely) infectious individuals that can spread the viral infection and therefore are essential for tracing and harnessing the epidemic diffusion. Instead, diagnostic tests should supplement clinical and radiological… Continue reading Analytical Performance of COVID-19 Detection Methods (RT-PCR): Scientific and Societal Concerns

Clarifying the evidence on SARS-CoV-2 antigen rapid tests in public health responses to COVID-19

The use of rapid lateral flow antigen testing (LFT) for SARS-CoV-2 has been questioned1, 2, 3 with uncorroborated4 reports of poor LFT sensitivity. The debate surrounding the use of the Innova Lateral Flow SARS-CoV-2 Antigen Test in the UK risks confusing policy makers internationally and potentially stalling deployment of LFTs in other countries.5 As scientists… Continue reading Clarifying the evidence on SARS-CoV-2 antigen rapid tests in public health responses to COVID-19