Genetic variants associated with physical performance and anthropometry in old age: a genome-wide association study in the ilSIRENTE cohort

Abstract

Unraveling the complexity of aging is crucial for understanding its mechanisms and its role as a risk factor for most chronic conditions. Advancements marked by genome-wide association studies (GWASs) have sparked interest in gene cataloguing in the context of aging and age-related conditions. Here, we used GWAS to explore whether single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were associated with functional and anthropometric parameters in a cohort of old community-dwellers enrolled in the ilSIRENTE study. Analyses were carried out in men and women aged 80+ years enrolled in the ilSIRENTE study (n = 286) and replicated in the inCHIANTI study (n = 1055). Genotyping was accomplished on Infinium Human610-QUAD version 1. In the ilSIRENTE population, genetic variants in ZNF295 and C2CD2 (rs928874 and rs1788355) on chromosome 21q22.3, were significantly associated with the 4-meter gait speed (rs928874, p = 5.61 × 10−8; rs1788355, p = 5.73 × 10−8). This association was not replicated in the inCHIANTI population. Our findings suggest that specific SNPs may be associated with a key measure of physical performance in older adults. GWASs using larger samples are needed to confirm these preliminary results to enhance our comprehension of complex age-associated phenomena.

Genome-wide association study of self-reported walking pace suggests beneficial effects of brisk walking on health and survival

“…These questions can be addressed with knowledge of the genetics of walking pace. To date, studies examining the genetic component of walking pace have analysed objectively measured gait speed, where speed is assessed by timing participants to walk a distance of up to 8 m. These studies focussed on older adults, giving insight into the biological mechanisms underlying age-related diseases and physical mobility 7 , 8 . Genome-wide significant markers of objectively measured gait speed were not identified in these studies, which had a maximum sample size of 31,479.…”

Lack of Association Between Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Genotype and Muscle Strength in Peruvian Older People

“…On the other hand, it has been described that muscle strength, balance and gait are subdomains of intrinsic ability. Although genetics is one of the determinants of intrinsic capacity, also the personal and health characteristics of older people contribute significantly to it [14].…”

Genetic Associations with Aging Muscle: A Systematic Review

“…Other genes that demonstrated significant associations with muscle phenotypes included the PR domain containing 16 (PRDM16) gene, Zinc finger protein 295 (ZNF295) gene and C2 calcium dependent domain containing 2 (C2CD2) gene (Tables 2 and 3) [44,70].…”