Biomarker
GlycA
Last updated 2026-05-30· 1 min read· Evidence: observational
Reviewed by the Ultimate Longevity Bible editorial team. Educational reference — not medical advice. See disclaimer.
Observational— Multiple cohorts; less assay variability than hsCRP
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What it measures
GlycA is an NMR signal arising from N-acetyl methyl groups on glycosylated acute-phase proteins (α1-acid glycoprotein, haptoglobin, α1-antitrypsin, others). It is a composite inflammation marker.
Why it complements hsCRP
- More stable: less affected by transient infection / injury than hsCRP, so trends are more interpretable.
- Different biology: captures glycosylation changes that hsCRP misses.
- Predicts mortality in multiple cohorts (MESA, Women's Health Study) independent of hsCRP.
- Generally a free add-on when an NMR lipid panel is ordered.
Interpretation
- Below 400 μmol/L: low chronic inflammatory burden.
- 400–450: moderate.
- Above 450: elevated; investigate insulin resistance, smoking, adiposity, occult infection.
What modifies it
Same levers as hsCRP — weight loss, exercise, smoking cessation, Mediterranean diet, statins, IL-6 / IL-1 blockade.
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- Canakinumab — Intervention.
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References
- Otvos, J. D. et al. GlycA: a composite NMR signal of acute phase glycoproteins and cardiovascular disease risk. Clin. Chem. 61, 714–723 (2015).