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The Detection of 5-Hydroxymethylcytosine in Neural Stem Cells and Brains of Mice
Published on: September 19, 2019
DNA methylation and cognitive functioning in healthy older adults
Olga J G Schiepers1, Martin P J van Boxtel, Renate H M de Groot
1Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience (MHeNS)/European Graduate School of Neuroscience (EURON), Maastricht University/Maastricht University Medical Centre, PO Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands. olga.schiepers@maastrichtuniversity.nl
The British Journal of Nutrition
|July 28, 2011
Summary
Global DNA methylation did not show an association with cognitive performance in healthy older adults. This study suggests that leukocyte DNA methylation status may not be a key factor in non-pathological cognitive functioning.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Genetics
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Folic acid supplementation may enhance cognitive function in older adults, potentially through methylation pathways crucial for brain health.
- While abnormal DNA methylation is linked to neurodevelopmental disorders, its role in normal cognitive function in adults remains unexplored.
- Investigating DNA methylation's association with cognitive performance is essential for understanding brain aging and potential interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the relationship between global DNA methylation and cognitive functioning in healthy older adults.
- To determine if DNA methylation status in leukocytes correlates with performance across various cognitive domains.
- To test the hypothesis that DNA methylation capacity influences cognitive abilities in aging individuals.
Main Methods:
- Global DNA methylation was quantified in leukocytes from 215 healthy adults (aged 50-70) using liquid chromatography-MS/MS.
- Cognitive performance was assessed using a battery of tests including verbal learning, executive function, and processing speed.
- Statistical analyses controlled for demographic, lifestyle, and genetic factors, including erythrocyte folate levels and MTHFR genotype.
Main Results:
- No significant association was found between global DNA methylation levels and cognitive performance in any measured domain.
- Leukocyte global DNA methylation did not correlate with visual verbal learning, executive function, or processing speed.
- The findings indicate that global DNA methylation, as assessed in this study, is not linked to cognitive function in healthy older adults.
Conclusions:
- The study does not support the hypothesis that global DNA methylation in leukocytes is associated with cognitive functioning in healthy older individuals.
- Further research may be needed to explore other epigenetic mechanisms or specific methylation patterns related to cognitive health.
- These findings contribute to the understanding of factors influencing cognitive aging and highlight the complexity of brain health maintenance.
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