# The DNA methylation landscape of naturally short-lived killifish

## TL;DR

This study maps DNA methylation in short-lived killifish, revealing age-related and tissue-specific changes that could help understand aging in vertebrates.

## Contribution

The first whole-genome methylation maps for two killifish species, highlighting their potential as a model for aging research.

## Key findings

- Age-related DNA methylation dynamics were identified in killifish.
- Tissue-specific methylation patterns were observed across the genome.
- Killifish are validated as a model for studying vertebrate aging.

## Abstract

Annual killifish of the genus Nothobranchius are naturally short-lived vertebrates that exhibit a wide range of aging characteristics typically observed in mammals. Here, we provide the first comprehensive whole-genome methylation map for two species, revealing local age-related as well as tissue-specific dynamics in the DNA methylome. Our maps and results support the annual killifish as a model organism and further highlight its value for studying aging including possible health status predictions in vertebrates.

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1038/s41598-026-39352-3.