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Resting heart rate, cognitive function, and inflammation in older adults: a population-based study
Ming Mao1, Rui Liu1, Yi Dong2,3
1Department of Neurology, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, No. 324 Jingwuweiqi Road, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
Aging Clinical and Experimental Research
|October 29, 2023
Summary
Elevated resting heart rate (RHR) is linked to poorer cognitive function in older adults. This association may involve systemic inflammation and endothelial injury, suggesting potential mechanisms for cognitive decline.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Cardiology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Growing evidence suggests a link between elevated resting heart rate (RHR) and diminished cognitive function in older adults.
- The underlying biological mechanisms connecting RHR and cognitive decline remain largely unexplored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between resting heart rate (RHR) and cognitive function in a large cohort of older adults.
- To explore potential mediating roles of systemic inflammation and endothelial markers in this relationship.
Main Methods:
- A population-based, cross-sectional study of 4510 dementia-free participants aged 65 years and older.
- Cognitive function assessed using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and a neuropsychological test battery.
- Resting heart rate (RHR) measured via electrocardiograph; serum biomarkers analyzed in a subsample.
Main Results:
- Higher RHR was associated with poorer cognitive function (MMSE and attention scores) and increased prevalence of cardiometabolic diseases.
- An inverted J-shaped association was observed between RHR and cognitive scores.
- RHR showed linear associations with elevated levels of proinflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, TNF-α) and adhesion molecules (MCP-1, ICAM-1, VCAM-1).
Conclusions:
- An inverted J-shaped relationship exists between RHR and cognitive function, specifically attention and global cognition.
- Systemic low-grade inflammation and endothelial injury are potential mechanisms linking high RHR to poor cognitive function in older adults.
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