Cognitive decline during aging may be influenced by peripheral factors, including neuroproteins and pro-inflammatory cytokine levels, body composition, and physical fitness. However, the specific asso Show more
Cognitive decline during aging may be influenced by peripheral factors, including neuroproteins and pro-inflammatory cytokine levels, body composition, and physical fitness. However, the specific associations between these factors and cognitive performance remain underexplored. A comprehensive assessment, including peripheral cytokine and neuroprotein levels, body composition, physical performance (aerobic fitness and muscle strength), and cognitive function was performed in a cohort of 87 older adults (mean age: 69.3 ± 3.4 years; 66 females, 21 males) with a range of Body Mass Index (BMI): 19.7 - 41.9. Elevated blood levels of N-lactoyl-phenylalanine (Lac-Phe) were associated with better psychomotor speed (r = -0.223, p = 0.034) as measured by the Trial Making Test-A (TMT-A). Elevated pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-8, IL-12) and peripheral clusterin concentrations were also associated with poorer cognitive performance. No significant associations were found between cortisol, brain-derived neurotrophic factor and cognitive function. BMI and fat mass (kg) were positively associated with performance on the Stroop Test, suggesting a negative effect of increased adipose tissue on inhibitory control. In contrast, greater skeletal muscle mass was positively associated with better memory. Physical fitness parameters, including VO Show less