Researchers link physical fitness to biomarkers – aspartate as a key metabolite
A research team from the University of Vienna and Nankai University has deciphered central molecular processes of active ageing by combining metabolomics, artificial intelligence and network modelling. The study, published in the journal npj Systems Biology and Applications , identifies aspartate as a key biomarker of physical fitness and shows how these molecules promote healthier aging.
The scientists developed a Body Activity Index (BAI) that measures endurance, strength and coordination through tests such as walking distance, hand strength measurement and balance tests. At the same time, a metabolomics index was created from blood concentrations of 35 metabolites. In 263 blood samples from older adults, there was a strong correlation (0.85, p < 1 × 10⁻¹⁹) between the two indices, demonstrating the link between molecular signature and physical fitness.
Using five AI models, including boosting models such as GBM and XGBoost, it differentiated active from less active people with over 91% accuracy. Eight metabolites, in particular aspartate, were found to be central predictors of activity levels. The modeling tool COVRECON analyzed the biochemical interactions and identified the enzymes aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) as key points. In active individuals, these enzymes fluctuated more, indicating greater metabolic flexibility in liver and muscle metabolism.
Aspartate plays a role not only in metabolism but also in the brain, as it is a precursor to neurotransmitters and activates NMDA receptors, which are important for learning and memory. The study suggests that physical activity creates a link between muscle-liver health and cognitive resilience through changes in aspartate metabolism.
Original Paper:
Editor: X-Press Journalistenbüro GbR
Gender Notice. The personal designations used in this text always refer equally to female, male and diverse persons. Double/triple naming and gendered designations are used for better readability. ected.
Most read
One Health: New approach to early detection of pandemics through wildlife surveillance A groundbreaking study by the Hebrew University of Jerusalem proposes to use wild animals as an earl...- Neutrophils: New therapeutic approach against cancer discovered Researchers at the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Duisburg-Essen have developed a promisin...
- New findings on heart attacks: Focus on overactive platelets Researchers at the Augsburg University Medical Center have identified a subgroup of particularly act...
