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Brain tissue volumes in familial longevity: the Leiden Longevity Study
Irmhild Altmann-Schneider1, Anton J M de Craen, Pieternella E Slagboom
1Department of Radiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Postzone C2-S, PO Box 9600, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands. i.altmann-schneider@lumc.nl
Aging Cell
|August 14, 2012
Summary
Individuals with long-lived parents show larger left amygdala volumes, suggesting a genetic link to longevity. This brain structure difference appears to be due to early development, not aging preservation.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Genetics
- Gerontology
Background:
- Brain atrophy is a key indicator of aging.
- Genetic factors significantly influence brain tissue volumes.
- Exceptional longevity may be linked to preserved brain structure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between brain volumes and familial longevity.
- To compare brain volumes in offspring of nonagenarians versus their spouses.
Main Methods:
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was used to assess brain volumes.
- Participants included middle-aged to elderly offspring of nonagenarian siblings and their spouses (controls).
- Statistical analyses compared brain volumes between groups and correlated them with age and parental longevity.
Main Results:
- No significant differences were found in whole brain, gray matter, or white matter volumes between offspring and controls.
- Left amygdalar volume was significantly larger in offspring compared to controls.
- This larger left amygdalar volume in offspring was strongly associated with familial longevity, particularly when comparing with the oldest long-lived parent.
Conclusions:
- A larger left amygdalar volume is associated with familial longevity.
- This association is likely due to a genetic trait influencing early brain development, rather than age-related preservation.
- The findings highlight a potential genetic component influencing brain structure and exceptional lifespan.
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