Exercise Appears to Promote Lifespan by Regulating Aging Biomarkers TAF15 and HKDC1

Abstract

Introduction Aging is a multifaceted process at the biological level that involves cellular senescence, oxidative
stress, and chronic inflammation. These components contribute to a decline in physiological function and increased
vulnerability to age-related diseases. This study investigates the influence of exercise on two key biomarkers of
aging, TAF15, and HKDC1, through the comparison of their expressions between athletes and non-athletes.
Materials/Methods: Blood samples were obtained from 30 individuals, including 15 athletes and 15 non-athletes.
Total RNA was extracted, after which cDNA synthesis was conducted to investigate the expression of the HKDC1
and TAF15 genes. The expression levels of both genes were subsequently determined using qRT-PCR. Indeed, the
results of HKDC1 expression presented 1.445-fold higher in athletes compared to healthy individuals, with the
statistical significance level of p = 0.007, indicating its use in glucose metabolism and further energy balance. On
the contrary, TAF15 mRNA expressed a 1.159-fold increase in athletes; however, the difference did not show
statistical significance at the level of p = 0.104.
Conclusion: Data herein presented indicate that exercise regularly improves metabolic health and may prevent an
age-related decline in metabolic health via the regulation of HKDC1 and TAF15. The current study reinforces the
role of physical activity as an important therapeutic strategy in healthy aging and the prevention of age-related
diseases, and further research is warranted to explain the mechanisms of these biomarkers to exercise.