Mediation role of telomere length in the relationship between physical activity and PhenoAge: A population-based study

Abstract

Background

The relationship between physical activity (PA), telomere length, and phenotypic age (PhenoAge) represents a pivotal area of investigation in aging research.

Methods

The study encompassed a cohort of 6200 participants aged 20 years and above, sourced from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Physical activity (PA) levels were assessed employing the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire, while DNA samples were collected to determine telomere length, measured in base pairs. PhenoAge, an emerging aging index relying on nine distinct chemical biomarkers, was computed.

Results

Incorporating a fully adjusted model, our analysis showed significant correlations between PA engagement and PhenoAge [Low PA, β (95 % CI): 0.039(-0.071,-0.008), p = 0.021; Moderate PA, β (95 % CI): 0.058(-0.082,-0.034), p < 0.001; High PA, β (95 % CI): 0.069(-0.096,-0.042), p < 0.001]. Furthermore, a positive link emerged between elevated PA levels and telomere length, with a β (95 % CI) of 0.011(0.001, 0.022), p = 0.034. A mediation analysis was performed, demonstrating that telomere length mediated the connection between PA and PhenoAge, with a proportion mediated calculated at 3.57 %.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that PA may play a key role in mitigating aging processes by preserving telomere length, highlighting the potential of PA as a target for interventions aimed at promoting healthy aging and longevity.