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Updated: Jun 15, 2026
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Correlating Gene-specific DNA Methylation Changes with Expression and Transcriptional Activity of Astrocytic KCNJ10 (Kir4.1)
Published on: September 26, 2015
Exercise effects on methylation of ASC gene
K Nakajima1, M Takeoka, M Mori
1Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute on Aging and Adaptation, Shinshu University Graduate School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Japan.
International Journal of Sports Medicine
|March 5, 2010
Summary
Regular moderate exercise can reduce inflammation by influencing gene methylation. Exercise training helps to reverse age-related changes in ASC gene methylation, potentially lowering pro-inflammatory cytokine production.
Area of Science:
- Epigenetics
- Immunology
- Exercise Physiology
Background:
- Chronic inflammation is linked to aging and various diseases.
- Pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-1beta and IL-18, play a key role in inflammation.
- The ASC gene regulates the secretion of IL-1beta and IL-18, and its expression is influenced by methylation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the epigenetic effects of aging and exercise on ASC gene methylation.
- To analyze the relationship between exercise, carcinogenesis, and P15 tumor suppressor gene methylation.
- To understand the molecular mechanisms underlying exercise-induced reduction in pro-inflammatory cytokines.
Main Methods:
- A 6-month high-intensity interval walking exercise program was implemented.
- DNA methylation analysis (pyrosequencing) was performed on peripheral blood samples.
- Participants were categorized into young control, older control, and older exercise groups.
Main Results:
- ASC gene methylation decreased significantly with age, suggesting increased ASC expression in older adults.
- Exercise training increased ASC gene methylation compared to older controls, implying reduced ASC expression.
- P15 tumor suppressor gene methylation was not affected by age or exercise.
Conclusions:
- Chronic moderate exercise can counteract age-related decreases in ASC gene methylation.
- Exercise may suppress excess pro-inflammatory cytokine production by reducing ASC expression.
- Epigenetic modifications, specifically ASC gene methylation, are a key mechanism for exercise's anti-inflammatory effects.
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