GlycanAge Test (GlycanAge Ltd.)
Laboratory test analyzing IgG glycosylation patterns to estimate biological age and systemic inflammation.
Table of contents
Basic data
The GlycanAge Test (GlycanAge Ltd.) measures biological age through the analysis of immunoglobulin G (IgG) N-glycosylation patterns. By quantifying 29 glycan structures from a blood sample, the test assesses how chronic inflammation and immune system aging — known as inflammaging — affect your overall biological age.
Glycans regulate immune function by modifying the inflammatory potential of antibodies. The test provides several glycan-based indexes (Shield, Youth, Mature, Median, Lifestyle) that together describe the balance between pro- and anti-inflammatory immune activity. A higher “GlycanAge” than your chronological age may suggest elevated systemic inflammation or accelerated immune aging, while a lower score indicates better immune regulation and slower aging.
Although scientifically robust, this test is not diagnostic and should be interpreted in context with lifestyle factors, hormonal balance, and other biological age markers.
Category: Epigenetics
Level: Advanced
Usefulness: Low
Level
Advanced
Usefulness
Low
Inflammation-based biological age
Offers a proxy measure of immune aging (inflammaging), revealing whether your immune system exhibits youthful or aged glycosylation patterns.
Longevity tracking
Serves as a complementary molecular biomarker to monitor systemic inflammation and response to interventions like weight loss, hormone therapy, or dietary changes.
How it works
Sample collection
A small blood sample (finger-prick or venous) is collected and sent to the GlycanAge laboratory for IgG isolation and glycan profiling.
Laboratory analysis
Advanced liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry methods quantify 29 distinct glycan structures, which are grouped into five indexes (Shield, Youth, Mature, Median, Lifestyle) representing functional immune states.
Measures
GlycanAge
The primary biological age estimate derived from IgG glycosylation. Indicates whether your immune system appears younger or older than your chronological age.
Glycan Shield (S)
Represents anti-inflammatory glycans with sialic acid residues — higher values suggest better immune resilience.
Glycan Youth (G2)
Measures glycans with two galactose units, associated with youthful immune profiles and low inflammation.
Glycan Mature (G0)
Pro-inflammatory glycans lacking galactose. Higher levels indicate greater inflammatory potential and immune aging.
Glycan Median (G1) and Lifestyle (B)
Supportive indexes reflecting metabolic, genetic, and environmental influences on immune function and aging.
Reliability
Repeatability
Results are generally stable if lifestyle and physiology remain constant. Variations may reflect transient inflammatory states rather than true biological aging.
Sensitivity to physiological changes
Acute infections, hormonal shifts, or significant weight changes can affect glycan composition and temporarily skew results.
Limitations
Indirect measurement
Reflects systemic inflammatory balance rather than direct cellular or genetic aging mechanisms.
Limited clinical translation
Elevated GlycanAge may result from reversible factors such as stress, infection, or sleep deprivation; results should be contextualized.
Frequency
Suggested cadence
Repeat every 6–12 months to evaluate long-term effects of lifestyle or therapeutic interventions on systemic inflammation and immune aging.
Cost
Typical costs
Approximately €350–500, depending on region and clinical partner. Price includes laboratory analysis and detailed biological age report.
Availability
Where available
Provided by GlycanAge Ltd. and partner longevity clinics worldwide.
Preparation
How to prepare
Avoid acute infections, heavy exercise, and alcohol 24–48 hours before testing. Maintain normal hydration and follow any local sample collection instructions.
Interpretation
Lower GlycanAge than chronological age
Indicates lower systemic inflammation and slower immune aging. Reflects a healthier, more youthful immune system.
Higher GlycanAge than chronological age
Suggests increased chronic inflammation or immune imbalance. Should prompt review of lifestyle, metabolic health, and stress factors.
Alternatives
DNA methylation clocks (e.g., DunedinPACE, TrueAge)
Provide a complementary molecular estimate of biological age based on gene regulation patterns rather than immune glycosylation.
Blood Age (Deep Longevity)
AI-driven age prediction model using standard blood biomarkers instead of glycomic data.
FAQ
Is GlycanAge a diagnostic test?
No. It is a scientifically validated research tool for measuring biological aging and inflammation, not a clinical diagnostic or disease predictor.
Can lifestyle improvements change my GlycanAge?
Yes. Research shows that caloric restriction, improved sleep, stress management, and balanced exercise can lower GlycanAge within months.
Is the test result affected by temporary factors?
Acute illness, infections, or extreme stress can transiently elevate GlycanAge. For consistent tracking, repeat testing under similar conditions and when you feel well.