THE AGE-RELATED INFLUENCES ON INFLAMMATORY MARKERS: A PILOT STUDY

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This subproject is one of many research subprojects utilizing the resources provided by a Center grant funded by NIH/NCRR. The subproject and investigator (PI) may have received primary funding from another NIH source, and thus could be represented in other CRISP entries. The institution listed is for the Center, which is not necessarily the institution for the investigator. Specific Aims: (1) Determine the relationship between age and blood levels of inflammatory markers (Cytokines - CRP, IL-6, TNF; Fibrinolytic markers - plasminogen activator inhibitor-1, tissue plasminogen activator, and fibrinogen), (2) determine if body fatness, physical activity, physical function and vascular function are related to blood levels of inflammatory markers, (3) determine whether the effect of age persists after controlling for physical activity, body fatness, and vascular function. Research Design and Methods: A cross-sectional research design (N = 100) will allow for the examination between circulating blood inflammatory markers and age, independent of physical activity levels, functional status, and body composition. To measure the levels of inflammatory and fibrinolytic markers from a blood sample, an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay will be employed. Additionally, body composition through dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry, vascular function (via calf blood flow and arterial elasticity), functional capacity and physical activity assessments will be completed and controlled for in the investigation between age and blood levels of inflammatory markers. Clinical Significance: Identifying the age-related changes independent of physical activity levels, physical function, vascular function and body composition may provide pertinent insight reflecting the contribution of the inflammatory markers in underlying pathophysiological processes of cardiovascular disease.