Longitudinal associations of physical activity levels with morphological and functional changes related with aging: The MAPT study

Abstract

Introduction: The biological process of aging is characterized by molecular and physiological processes that lead to alterations in the organism. There is still a lack of a consensus about the measurement of biological aging, but physical activity (PA) could be a potential marker of an aging phenotype.

Methods: Measurements of body composition, muscle quality (MQ), blood biochemistry, and neurodegeneration were assessed over three years. Physical activity levels were measured using a self-reported questionnaire.

Results: Three-year progression of PA levels showed that those who maintained low levels of PA was significantly associated with the evolution of brain and hippocampal volume, compared to inactive individuals. Similar results were found always active individuals, but also had better cognition.

Conclusion: PA levels are associated with some elements of biological aging, but more studies with objective-based PA measurements could provide a more in-depth knowledge on biological aging.

Keywords: Aging; Biomarkers; Phenotype; Physical activity.