AGE Reader (Diagnoptics)

Non-invasive assessment of accumulated advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) in the skin.

AGE Reader (Diagnoptics)

Table of contents

Basic data

AGE Reader by Diagnoptics provides a non-invasive evaluation of Advanced Glycation End-products (AGEs) by measuring skin autofluorescence. AGEs are harmful compounds formed through the non-enzymatic reaction between sugars and proteins or lipids, and they accumulate with age and metabolic stress.

High AGE levels are associated with accelerated aging, diabetes complications, cardiovascular diseases, and oxidative stress. This test offers insights into cumulative metabolic and oxidative damage, serving as a proxy for long-term health risk and biological aging.

Category: Cardiovascular tests

Level: Advanced

Usefulness: Medium

Level

Advanced

This test is more suitable for individuals already familiar with aging biomarkers and advanced metabolic assessments. While non-invasive and simple to perform, its interpretation requires contextual understanding of AGE formation, oxidative stress, and glycemic health. It is best used as a complementary marker for long-term cellular damage.

Usefulness

Medium

AGE Reader results can highlight cumulative metabolic damage, but are less actionable in isolation. It’s most useful for individuals managing advanced longevity protocols or monitoring anti-aging therapies.
Biological aging insight

Elevated AGE levels may reflect cumulative oxidative and glycation stress, correlating with accelerated biological aging.

Cardiovascular and diabetes risk

High AGEs are linked to endothelial dysfunction and diabetes complications, offering risk insight even before clinical symptoms.

How it works

The AGE Reader uses light-induced skin autofluorescence to estimate AGE accumulation in tissue, typically on the forearm.
Skin autofluorescence

A flash of UV light is applied to the forearm, and the device measures the fluorescence emitted by AGEs in the tissue.

Comparison to population data

The device compares the result to a normative database to estimate cardiovascular or metabolic risk based on AGE levels.

Measures

The main output is a skin autofluorescence value, interpreted relative to population norms.
AGE score

Reported as arbitrary units (AU), typically with reference ranges indicating low, moderate, or high AGE accumulation.

Risk estimation

Some reports offer cardiovascular or diabetes complication risk levels based on AGE score percentile.

Reliability

The AGE Reader offers repeatable, non-invasive measurements, but its accuracy can be affected by skin tone and hydration.
Repeatability

High intra-individual reliability under standardized conditions.

Sensitivity to conditions

Skin pigmentation, tanning, or recent lotion use can influence readings. Not recommended on tattoos or scar tissue.

Limitations

While useful as an aging biomarker, AGEs are difficult to reverse and not actionable in the short term.
Limited specificity

High AGEs don’t point to a specific diagnosis, and multiple conditions can elevate levels.

Not a replacement for metabolic labs

Should be used in conjunction with glucose, HbA1c, and inflammatory markers for full metabolic assessment.

Frequency

Suggested cadence

Once or twice per year is sufficient to track trends in AGE accumulation, particularly for those at risk or on interventions.

Cost

Typical costs

Usually priced between 200–400 PLN. May vary based on provider and whether part of a broader health assessment.

Availability

Where available

Offered in selected longevity clinics and diagnostic centers in Europe, especially those focused on metabolic health.

Preparation

How to prepare

No fasting required. Avoid applying lotions, self-tanner, or creams on the test area (typically forearm) on the day of the test.

Interpretation

The score should be interpreted relative to age- and population-based reference values. Elevated levels may signal chronic metabolic stress.
Low levels

Indicative of good metabolic and oxidative health with minimal glycation accumulation.

High levels

Suggestive of advanced aging, metabolic syndrome, or oxidative stress burden. Further diagnostics may be warranted.

Alternatives

Blood AGE assays

Laboratory testing of circulating AGEs via serum analysis, though less accessible and more invasive.

Advanced glycation panel (composite)

Combining multiple biomarkers (AGEs, oxidative stress, inflammation) for a more comprehensive risk profile.

FAQ

Can AGE levels be lowered?

While difficult to reverse, lifestyle changes—such as reducing sugar intake, avoiding high-temperature cooking, and antioxidant-rich diets—may slow further accumulation.

Is the test suitable for all skin types?

The device may have reduced accuracy in individuals with very dark skin tones. Consult your provider for suitability.