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DNA methylation clock DNAmFitAge shows regular exercise is associated with slower aging and systemic adaptation
Matyas Jokai1, Ferenc Torma1,2,3, Kristen M McGreevy4
1Research Institute of Sport Science, Hungarian University of Sport Science, Budapest, Hungary.
Geroscience
|May 20, 2023
Summary
Physical fitness is linked to slower aging and better memory, as shown by new DNA methylation (DNAm) biomarkers. The DNAmFitAge marker better identifies fitness levels and indicates younger biological age in fit individuals.
Area of Science:
- Epigenetics and Aging
- Exercise Physiology
Background:
- DNA methylation (DNAm) biomarkers like DNAmPhenoAge and DNAmGrimAge assess biological aging.
- Physical fitness is a key determinant of healthspan and lifespan.
- The relationship between physical fitness and novel DNAm biomarkers requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between physical fitness and established and novel DNAm-based aging biomarkers.
- To evaluate the efficacy of the DNAmFitAge biomarker in distinguishing individuals based on fitness levels.
- To explore the link between physical fitness, cognitive function, and epigenetic aging.
Main Methods:
- Recruited adults aged 33-88 with diverse physical fitness levels, including athletes.
- Assessed physical fitness using VO2max, Jumpmax, Gripmax, and measured HDL levels.
- Analyzed DNA methylation data to calculate DNAmPhenoAge, DNAmGrimAge, and DNAmFitAge.
- Correlated fitness parameters and cognitive function (verbal short-term memory) with DNAm biomarkers.
Main Results:
- Higher VO2max, Jumpmax, Gripmax, and HDL levels correlated with better verbal short-term memory.
- Verbal short-term memory was associated with decelerated aging as indicated by DNAmFitAge acceleration.
- DNAmFitAge demonstrated superior ability to differentiate between high-fitness and low/medium-fitness individuals compared to existing biomarkers.
- High-fit males and females exhibited a younger biological age (1.5 and 2.0 years younger, respectively) according to DNAmFitAge.
Conclusions:
- Regular physical exercise induces beneficial physiological and epigenetic changes associated with aging.
- DNAmFitAge serves as a novel and effective biomarker for assessing biological age and quality of life in relation to physical fitness.
- Fitness-level-associated epigenetic differences highlight the protective role of exercise against aging.
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