Gene variant linked to better mobility in the elderly

Reported by Susan Aldridge, PhD, medical journalist

Older people with a certain gene variant who also exercise are more likely to preserve their mobility than those without the variant.
Mobility problems are common among older people but physical activity can help ward off this problem. However, individual responses to exercise vary. Scientists at Wake Forest University now reveal one reason why this may be.

They looked at the occurrence of a specific variant of a gene called angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) among a group of over 3,000 men and women aged 70 to 79. Among all those reporting a high level of physical activity, there was less mobility limitation - as you might expect. But those carrying the gene variant seemed to get more benefit from their exercise in terms of keeping their mobility. The reason for this is unclear at present. The findings do not mean that those who do not have the genotype will not profit from physical activity as well. But they may have to work harder at it!

Source
Journal of the American Medical Association 10th August 2005 Volume 294 pages 691-698

Please take a moment to give us your comments. For questions about Health matters you may check our "Questions & Answers" Portal and Service.