What serology is
Serology is the study and testing of blood serum — the fluid left after blood clots — most often to measure antibodies, but also hormones, inflammatory markers and metabolic indicators. It underpins much of routine blood work.
Why it matters for longevity
Many longevity-relevant readouts are serological: inflammatory markers linked to inflammaging, metabolic and hormonal panels, and antibody profiles that reflect adaptive immune status. Tracked over time, these markers help gauge biological trajectory and response to interventions.
What the evidence shows
Core serological assays are mature, standardised and central to evidence-based medicine. The caveats are interpretive: single values fluctuate, reference ranges are population averages, and “abnormal” results need clinical context rather than automatic action.
Bottom line
A foundational, well-validated diagnostic layer — most useful when specific markers are chosen for a clear question and trended over time.