Clonal Hematopoiesis Aging

Clonal hematopoiesis aging refers to age-associated expansion of blood cell clones derived from a single hematopoietic stem cell that has acquired genetic mutations. With advancing age, somatic mutations accumulate in hematopoietic stem cells, allowing certain clones to gain a competitive growth advantage. These expanded clones contribute disproportionately to blood cell production. Clonal hematopoiesis aging is associated with increased systemic inflammation, altered immune responses, and elevated risk of cardiovascular disease, hematologic malignancies, and overall mortality. Although often asymptomatic, clonal hematopoiesis reflects underlying genomic instability and altered stem cell dynamics during aging. It illustrates how age-dependent cellular changes can influence whole-body health. Studying clonal hematopoiesis aging provides insight into interactions between somatic mutation accumulation, immune aging, and chronic disease risk. This phenomenon serves as a measurable link between molecular aging processes and clinical outcomes.