#1

The human body is a complex system that operates across multiple timescales, from the rapid changes in our hormones in response to our environments to the slow, gradual changes of aging. These interconnected processes, however, are often studied in isolation, leading to a fragmented understanding of human physiology. The TIME study is an observational study that will focus on investigating an individuals’ circulating molecular profile, or “-omics” (e.g. proteomics, metabolomics, lipidomics), along with data from wearable health sensors to map these changes across daily and weekly time scales.

The study’s overall goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of how the human body changes over time, leading to the development of next-generation diagnostic tools and personalized health interventions.

To participate, fill our the interest form on our clinical trials page

This video introduces the Buck Institute’s “Time Study,” a pioneering project on aging and personalized health.

Here are the key points from the seminar “Taking the Measure of a Person Over Time” by the Buck Institute for Research on Aging:

1. Introduction to the Buck Institute and the Time Study

  • The Buck Institute is dedicated to understanding the biology of aging to extend healthy lifespan and reduce chronic disease.
  • The “Time Study” (Temporal Investigation of Multimodal Elements) aims to map the dynamic changes in human biology—called the “phenome”—over time, rather than relying on single snapshots.

2. Study Design and Goals

  • The study will enroll 150 participants (aged 55+) for an intensive 11-week period, with follow-ups at 6 and 12 months.
  • Participants will undergo frequent measurements: blood draws, wearable device tracking (Oura Ring, Whoop Band, etc.), microbiome sampling (gut, skin, oral, vaginal), retinal scans, and cognitive assessments.
  • The goal is to collect comprehensive, longitudinal data to better understand how biological markers change over time and in response to interventions.

3. Data Collection and Technology

  • The study uses digital tools, including an AI chatbot called “Bucky,” to collect real-time lifestyle and health data from participants.
  • Wearables help bridge the gap between episodic clinical visits by providing continuous data.
  • All data is anonymized and securely stored; participants receive detailed reports and keep the devices.

4. Scientific Approach

  • The project is “hypothesis-free” and discovery-driven, using big data and AI to let patterns emerge from the data itself.
  • Data will be integrated using knowledge graphs to find new connections and insights.
  • The study includes “perturbations” (like glucose tolerance and exercise tests) to see how the body responds to challenges.

5. Broader Impact and Challenges

  • The study aims to create a “Rosetta Stone” for biological data, enabling better comparison and integration across different technologies and studies.
  • It addresses data silos, the need for long-term data, and the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration.
  • The project is funded by a $52 million federal contract from ARPA-H, supporting several major research themes.

6. Participant Experience and Benefits

  • Participants are compensated ($1,250), keep the wearables, and receive actionable health data.
  • The study is already underway, with enrollment open for 2.5 years.
  • Data privacy and security are emphasized, and the research is intended to benefit both science and individual health.

7. Future Directions

  • The Buck Institute plans to use this foundational data to drive future research in precision nutrition, digital biomarkers, and personalized preventive care.
  • The seminar encourages public engagement, participation in studies, and ongoing education about aging research.
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#2

That looks really interesting. I would sign up if I were 55.