Physical Activity and Genome-wide DNA Methylation: The REgistre GIroní del COR Study

Area of Science:

• Epigenetics
• Genomics
• Human Health

Background:

• DNA methylation is a potential mechanism linking physical activity (PA) to health benefits.
• Understanding genome-wide DNA methylation patterns associated with PA is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between physical activity and genome-wide DNA methylation at the CpG level.
• To identify specific CpG sites differentially methylated in response to varying levels of physical activity.

Main Methods:

• A two-stage epigenome-wide association study design was employed.
• Meta-analysis of linear and nonlinear associations across three independent populations (total n = 2408).
• Physical activity was assessed using validated questionnaires and categorized into light, moderate, vigorous, and total PA.

Main Results:

• Two CpG sites exhibited a statistically significant nonlinear association with moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA).
• CpG cg24155427 (chromosome 1) and cg09565397 (chromosome 8, within DGAT1) were identified.
• These sites have prior associations with smoking, lupus, aging, and triacylglycerol synthesis.

Conclusions:

• Identified two novel CpG sites with a nonlinear dose-response relationship to MVPA.
• These findings warrant further validation and research into the biological mechanisms of PA's health benefits.
• The identified CpG sites may serve as biomarkers for PA-related health outcomes.