Abstract: This application describes small noncoding RNA markers that can be found in a biological sample taken from an individual. The level of such markers are useful for determining the individual's health status, especially in comparison with others. Methods and kits for the use of these markers are provided as well.

Abstract: Methods and systems for monitoring interventions and/or a subject, such as a human patient. One exemplary embodiment of a method includes measuring at least one biological parameter of a subject, determining a biological state from the measuring, administering (after the measuring) an intervention which includes a caloric restriction (CR) mimetic to the subject and measuring, after the administering, the at least one biological parameter and determining a later biological state from the measuring after the administering.

Abstract: This invention is based on the discovery that certain genes have expression levels that are substantially increased or decreased in the liver of animals with diabetes. Monitoring the expression levels of such genes allows diagnosis of diabetes. In certain embodiments, the invention also provides methods of modulating the expression levels of such genes to treat diabetes and diabetic complications. In other embodiments, the invention provides a screening assay that identifies compounds which modulate the expression level of polynucleotides or functional properties of polypeptides that are over or under expressed in diabetes. In some cases, these compounds can be used to treat diabetes and diabetic complications. In still other embodiments, the invention provides assays to determine whether compounds intended for treatment of other diseases also induce diabetes.

Abstract: Long term calorie restriction has the benefit of increasing life span. Methods to screen interventions that mimic the effects of calorie restriction are disclosed. Extensive analysis of genes for which expression is statistically different between control and calorie restricted animals has demonstrated that specific genes are preferentially expressed during calorie restriction. Screening for interventions which produce the same expression profile will provide interventions that increase life span. In a further aspect, it has been discovered that test animals on a calorie restricted diet for a relatively short time have a similar gene expression profile to test animals which have been on a long term calorie restricted diet.