Ageing Investigation Using Two-Time-Point Metabolomics Data from KORA and CARLA Studies

Area of Science:

• Metabolomics
• Gerontology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Ageing is a major risk factor for diseases, closely linked to metabolic changes.
• Understanding metabolite shifts in healthy ageing provides insights into longevity.
• Identifying age-associated metabolites independent of chronological age is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and replicate ageing-associated metabolites in healthy individuals.
• To understand long-term metabolite changes during ageing.
• To explore the biochemical relevance of identified metabolites in ageing processes.

Main Methods:

• Longitudinal analysis of fasting serum samples from KORA and CARLA cohorts.
• Sex-stratified analysis using generalized estimation equation models.
• Adjustment for covariates including age, BMI, physical activity, and lifestyle factors.

Main Results:

• Five metabolites (C18, arginine, ornithine, serine, tyrosine) identified in women; four (arginine, ornithine, PC aa C36:3, PC ae C40:5) in men.
• Arginine levels decreased, while ornithine levels increased in both sexes.
• Identified metabolites are implicated in apoptosis, mitochondrial dysfunction, inflammation, and lipid metabolism.

Conclusions:

• Significant ageing-associated metabolite changes were identified and replicated in healthy individuals.
• Metabolite alterations are linked to fundamental ageing processes.
• Further research with larger cohorts is needed to validate these findings.