Dynamic and reversible transcriptomic age shifts induced by COVID-19 in Korean whole blood

Abstract

We developed the first genome-wide transcriptomic clock specific to Korean ethnicity to predict chronological age using whole blood samples from 440 healthy individuals. Our analysis revealed profound age acceleration – up to 21.31 years – during homeostatic disruption in COVID-19 patients, which reverted to baseline upon recovery. These findings highlight the ability of the blood transcriptome to dynamically track reversible changes in age-associated inflammatory responses during infections. Our study underscores the potential of anti-aging interventions in managing infectious diseases. © 2025 An et al.