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Molecular Effects of Physical Activity and Body Composition: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Jenni Chambers1,2, Clare M P Roscoe2, Corinna Chidley2
1Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, School of Science, University of Derby, Derby DE22 1GB, UK.
Physical activity (PA) influences public health by altering DNA methylation. This meta-analysis identified CpG sites and genes linked to metabolism, highlighting PA’s molecular impact.
Area of Science:
- Epigenetics and Public Health
- Molecular Biology
- Metabolic Research
Background:
- Physical activity (PA) and body composition are key public health determinants.
- Previous research indicates differential DNA methylation in physically active individuals.
- Understanding these epigenetic changes is crucial for public health interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify specific CpG sites associated with varying levels of physical activity.
- To explore the metabolic pathways influenced by physical activity-induced DNA methylation.
- To provide a comprehensive overview of epigenomic changes related to physical activity.
Main Methods:
- A systematic meta-analysis adhering to PRISMA guidelines, searching multiple scientific databases.
- Inclusion of epigenomic data from studies on healthy participants, screened using Rayyan AI.
- Confirmation of CpG sites and genes using the EWAS catalogue.
Main Results:
- Six studies with 770 participants were included, revealing significant improvements in BMI, blood pressure, insulin, and glucose levels with PA intervention.
- A total of 257 differentially methylated CpG sites were identified in physically active individuals.
- 134 CpGs mapped to 92 genes involved in obesity-related pathways, particularly lipid metabolism and insulin signaling.
Conclusions:
- Physical activity induces differential DNA methylation signatures affecting metabolic genes.
- Genes such as JAZF1 and NAV1 show differential regulation across tissues and studies, impacting key metabolic pathways.
- Further research on these candidate genes is recommended to fully elucidate the molecular benefits of physical activity.
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