Overview

• EPI-Clone, a novel single-cell sequencing method, deciphers natural DNA methylation patterns to trace blood stem cell lineage and clonal dynamics in both humans and mice.
• The study shows that by age 50–60, blood stem cell diversity declines as a few dominant clones, often myeloid-biased, take over blood production, contributing to chronic inflammation and disease vulnerability.
• Many dominant clones lack known genetic mutations, suggesting clonal expansion is a natural feature of blood aging rather than solely a precursor to malignancy.
• The findings pave the way for clinical tools to monitor blood aging, identify individuals at risk of blood cancers and chronic inflammation, and explore targeted rejuvenation therapies.
• Researchers are refining EPI-Clone for clinical applications, aiming to enable early detection and precision interventions for age-related blood disorders.