A new study examining the relationship between chromosome telomere length and age-related brain diseases suggests that individuals with shorter protective chromosome caps may face higher risks of developing neurological conditions.
Researchers analyzed data from more than 356,000 participants in the UK Biobank, tracking leukocyte telomere length and its potential correlation with stroke, dementia, and late-life depression. The study found that participants with the shortest telomeres had an 8% higher risk of stroke, a 19% higher risk of dementia, and a 14% higher risk of late-life depression.
Importantly, the research revealed that lifestyle factors could significantly influence these risks. Participants with a low Brain Care Score showed an 11% increased risk of these brain diseases when experiencing shorter telomeres. Conversely, those with a high Brain Care Score demonstrated no significant increased risk, suggesting that healthy lifestyle choices might counteract the potential negative effects of shortened telomeres.
Dr. Tamara N. Kimball, the study's lead researcher, emphasized that while telomere length could be a potential indicator of biological aging, it does not directly cause these neurological conditions. Instead, it may serve as a marker of underlying biological processes and cellular stress.
The study highlights the importance of holistic approaches to brain health, suggesting that focusing on modifiable lifestyle factors might be more beneficial than developing therapeutic interventions specifically targeting telomere length.
Researchers caution that more studies are needed to fully understand the dynamics of telomere length and its interactions with various risk factors. The current research was limited to participants of European ancestry and measured telomere length at a single point in time.
The findings offer promising insights into potential strategies for promoting healthier aging and reducing the risks of age-related brain diseases, emphasizing that it is never too late to adopt healthier lifestyle choices.
