From biological aging to functional decline: A narrative review of insights into chronic inflammation and intrinsic capacity

Ageing Res Rev. 2023 Dec 23:102175. doi: 10.1016/j.arr.2023.102175. Online ahead of print.ABSTRACTIntrinsic capacity is the sum of an individual's physical and mental capacities, which helps determine functional ability. Intrinsic capacity decline is an important predictor of adverse health outcomes and can identify individuals at higher risk of functional decline. Aging is characterized by a decrease in physiological reserves and functional abilities. Chronic inflammation, a mechanism of aging, is associated with decreased intrinsic capacity, which may mirror the broader relationship between aging and functional ability. Therefore, it is crucial for maintaining functional ability and promoting healthy aging to study the mechanisms of intrinsic capacity decline, identify easily available markers, and make targets for intervention from the perspective of chronic inflammation. We reviewed the current research on chronic inflammation, inflammation-related markers, and intrinsic capacity. To date, there is still no inflammatory markers with high specificity and sensitivity to monitor intrinsic capacity decline. Interleukin-6, C-reactive protein, and tumor necrosis factor-α may potentially indicate changes in intrinsic capacity, but their results with intrinsic capacity or each intrinsic capacity domain are inconsistent. Considering the variations in individual responses to changes in inflammatory markers, it may be beneficial to explore the use of multiple analytes instead of re...

Source: Ageing Research Reviews - December 25, 2023 Category: Genetics & Stem Cells Authors: Xiaxia Li Lina Ma Source Type: research