Frailty Status in Older Adults Is Related to Alterations in Indoleamine 2,3-Dioxygenase 1 and Guanosine Triphosphate Cyclohydrolase I Enzymatic Pathways

New insights into healthy ageing, inflammageing and frailty using metabolomics

Human ageing is a normal process and does not necessarily result in the development of frailty. A mix of genetic, environmental, dietary, and lifestyle factors can have an impact on ageing, and whether an individual develops frailty. Frailty is defined as the loss of physiological reserve both at the physical and cellular levels, where systemic processes such as oxidative stress and inflammation contribute to physical decline. The newest "omics" technology and systems biology discipline, metabolomics, enables thorough characterisation of small-molecule metabolites in biological systems at a particular time and condition. In a biological system, metabolites-cellular intermediate products of metabolic reactions-reflect the system's final response to genomic, transcriptomic, proteomic, epigenetic, or environmental alterations. As a relatively newer technique to characterise metabolites and biomarkers in ageing and illness, metabolomics has gained popularity and has a wide range of applications. We will give a comprehensive summary of what is currently known about metabolomics in studies of ageing, with a focus on biomarkers for frailty. Metabolites related to amino acids, lipids, carbohydrates, and redox metabolism may function as biomarkers of ageing and/or frailty development, based on data obtained from human studies. However, there is a complexity that underpins biological ageing, due to both genetic and environmental factors that play a role in orchestrating the ageing process. Therefore, there is a critical need to identify pathways that contribute to functional decline in people with frailty.

Exploring the metabolomics profile of frailty- a systematic review

Background

Frailty is a multifaceted geriatric syndrome characterized by an increased vulnerability to stressful events. metabolomics studies are valuable tool for better understanding the underlying mechanisms of pathologic conditions. This review aimed to elucidate the metabolomics profile of frailty.

Method

This systematic review was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) 2020 statement. A comprehensive search was conducted across multiple databases. Initially, 5027 results were retrieved, and after removing duplicates, 1838 unique studies were subjected to screening. Subsequently, 248 studies underwent full-text screening, with 21 studies ultimately included in the analysis. Data extraction was performed meticulously by two authors, and the quality of the selected studies was assessed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Program (CASP) checklist.

Results

The findings revealed that certain Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) levels were lower in frail subjects compared to robust subjects, while levels of glutamate and glutamine were higher in frail individuals. Moreover, sphingomyelins and phosphatidylcholines (PC) displayed a decreasing trend as frailty advanced. Additionally, other metabolic derivatives, such as carnitine, exhibited significant associations with frailty. These metabolites were primarily interconnected through biochemical pathways related to the tricarboxylic acid and urea cycles. Notably, frailty was associated with a decrease in metabolic derivatives, including carnitine.

Conclusion

This study underscores the intricate relationship between essential metabolites, including amino acids and lipids, and their varying levels in frail individuals compared to their robust counterparts. It provides a comprehensive panel of metabolites, shedding light on their potential associations with frailty and expanding our understanding of this complex syndrome.

Tryptophan metabolism as a 'reflex' feature of neuroimmune communication: Sensor and effector functions for the indoleamine-2, 3-dioxygenase kynurenine pathway

Although the central nervous system (CNS) and immune system were regarded as independent entities, it is now clear that immune system cells can influence the CNS, and neuroglial activity influences the immune system. Despite the many clinical implications for this 'neuroimmune interface', its detailed operation at the molecular level remains unclear. This narrative review focuses on the metabolism of tryptophan along the kynurenine pathway, since its products have critical actions in both the nervous and immune systems, placing it in a unique position to influence neuroimmune communication. In particular, since the kynurenine pathway is activated by pro-inflammatory mediators, it is proposed that physical and psychological stressors are the stimuli of an organismal protective reflex, with kynurenine metabolites as the effector arm co-ordinating protective neural and immune system responses. After a brief review of the neuroimmune interface, the general perception of tryptophan metabolism along the kynurenine pathway is expanded to emphasize this environmentally driven perspective. The initial enzymes in the kynurenine pathway include indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase (IDO1), which is induced by tissue damage, inflammatory mediators or microbial products, and tryptophan-2,3-dioxygenase (TDO), which is induced by stress-induced glucocorticoids. In the immune system, kynurenic acid modulates leucocyte differentiation, inflammatory balance and immune tolerance by activating aryl hydrocarbon receptors and modulates pain via the GPR35 protein. In the CNS, quinolinic acid activates N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA)-sensitive glutamate receptors, whereas kynurenic acid is an antagonist: the balance between glutamate, quinolinic acid and kynurenic acid is a significant regulator of CNS function and plasticity. The concept of kynurenine and its metabolites as mediators of a reflex coordinated protection against stress helps to understand the variety and breadth of their activity. It should also help to understand the pathological origin of some psychiatric and neurodegenerative diseases involving the immune system and CNS, facilitating the development of new pharmacological strategies for treatment.

The Association of Tryptophan and Its Metabolites With Incident Hip Fractures, Mortality, and Prevalent Frailty in Older Adults: The Cardiovascular Health Study

Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins, and sufficient protein intake is important for skeletal health. We utilized stored serum from the Cardiovascular Health Study in 1992-1993 to examine the relationship between levels of the essential amino acid tryptophan (trp) and its oxidized and nonoxidized metabolites to risk for incident hip fractures and mortality over 12 years of follow-up. We included 131 persons who sustained a hip fracture during this time period and 131 without a hip fracture over these same 12 years of follow-up; 58% female and 95% White. Weighted multivariable Cox hazards models were used to estimate the hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) of incident hip fracture associated with a one standard deviation (SD) higher trp or its metabolites exposure. Relative risk regression was used to evaluate the cross-sectional association of trp and its metabolites with frailty. Higher serum levels of trp were significantly associated with lower risk of incident hip fractures (HR = 0.75 per SD of trp (95% CI 0.57-0.99) but were not significantly associated with mortality or frailty status by Freid's frailty index. There were no statistically significant associations between any of the oxidized or nonoxidized products of trp with incident hip fractures (p ≥ 0.64), mortality (p ≥ 0.20), or cross-sectional frailty status (p ≥ 0.13) after multiple testing adjustment. Randomized clinical trials examining whether increasing trp intake is beneficial for osteoporosis are needed. © 2023 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research. This article has been contributed to by U.S. Government employees and their work is in the public domain in the USA.

The kynurenine pathway in HIV, frailty and inflammaging

Kynurenine (Kyn) is a circulating tryptophan (Trp) catabolite generated by enzymes including IDO1 that are induced by inflammatory cytokines such as interferon-gamma. Kyn levels in circulation increase with age and Kyn is implicated in several age-related disorders including neurodegeneration, osteoporosis, and sarcopenia. Importantly, Kyn increases with progressive disease in HIV patients, and antiretroviral therapy does not normalize IDO1 activity in these subjects. Kyn is now recognized as an endogenous agonist of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor, and AhR activation itself has been found to induce muscle atrophy, increase the activity of bone-resorbing osteoclasts, decrease matrix formation by osteoblasts, and lead to senescence of bone marrow stem cells. Several IDO1 and AhR inhibitors are now in clinical trials as potential cancer therapies. We propose that some of these drugs may be repurposed to improve musculoskeletal health in older adults living with HIV.

The Role of the Kynurenine Pathway in the Pathophysiology of Frailty, Sarcopenia, and Osteoporosis

Tryptophan is an essential nutrient required to generate vitamin B3 (niacin), which is mainly involved in energy metabolism and DNA production. Alterations in tryptophan metabolism could have significant effects on aging and musculoskeletal health. The kynurenine pathway, essential in tryptophan catabolism, is modulated by inflammatory factors that are increased in older persons, a process known as inflammaging. Osteoporosis, sarcopenia, osteosarcopenia, and frailty have also been linked with chronically increased levels of inflammatory factors. Due to the disruption of the kynurenine pathway by chronic inflammation and/or changes in the gut microbiota, serum levels of toxic metabolites are increased and are associated with the pathophysiology of those conditions. In contrast, anabolic products of this pathway, such as picolinic acid, have demonstrated a positive effect on skeletal muscle and bone. In addition, physical activity can modulate this pathway by promoting the secretion of anabolic kynurenines. According to the evidence collected, kynurenines could have a promising role as biomarkers for osteoporosis sarcopenia, osteosarcopenia, and frailty in older persons. In addition, some of these metabolites could become important targets for developing new pharmacological treatments for these conditions.

Interleukin-6 promotes skeletal muscle catabolism by activating tryptophan-indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 1-kynurenine pathway during intra-abdominal sepsis

BACKGROUND

Inflammatory cytokine interleukin-6 (IL-6) plays a pivotal role in skeletal muscle degradation after intra-abdominal sepsis (IAS), with mechanism remained to be elucidated. Indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 1 (IDO-1), a key enzyme in converting tryptophan into kynurenine, could be activated by IL-6, and kynurenine has been shown to be involved in muscle degradation. We hypothesized that IL-6 could promote muscle degradation via tryptophan-IDO-1-kynurenine pathway in IAS patients.

METHODS

Serum and rectus abdominis (RA) were obtained from IAS or non-IAS patients. Mouse model of IAS-induced muscle wasting was generated by caecal ligation and puncture (CLP) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) injection. IL-6 signalling was blocked by anti-mouse IL-6 antibody (IL-6-AB), and the IDO-1 pathway was blocked by navoximod. To elucidate the role of kynurenine in muscle mass and physiology, kynurenine was administered to IAS mice treated with IL-6-AB.

RESULTS

Compared to non-IAS patients, kynurenine levels in serum (+2.30-fold vs. non-IAS, P < 0.001) and RA (+3.11-fold vs. non-IAS, P < 0.001) were elevated, whereas tryptophan levels in serum (-53.65% vs. non-IAS, P < 0.01) and RA (-61.39% vs. non-IAS, P < 0.01) were decreased. Serum IL-6 level of the IAS group was significantly higher compared to non-IAS patients (+5.82-fold vs. non-IAS, P = 0.01), and muscle cross-sectional area (MCSA) was markedly reduced compared to non-IAS patients (-27.73% vs. non-IAS, P < 0.01). In animal experiments, IDO-1 expression was up-regulated in the small intestine, colon and blood for CLP or LPS-treated mice, and there was correlation (R²  = 0.66, P < 0.01) between serum and muscle kynurenine concentrations. Navoximod significantly mitigated IAS-induced skeletal muscle loss according to MCSA analysis (+22.94% vs. CLP, P < 0.05; +23.71% vs. LPS, P < 0.01) and increased the phosphorylated AKT (+2.15-fold vs. CLP, P < 0.01; +3.44-fold vs. LPS, P < 0.01) and myosin heavy chain (+3.64-fold vs. CLP, P < 0.01; +2.13-fold vs. LPS, P < 0.01) protein expression in myocytes. In the presence of anti-IL-6 antibody, a significantly decreased IDO-1 expression was observed in the small intestine, colon and blood in CLP or LPS mice (all P < 0.01), whereas the decrease of MCSA was alleviated (+37.43% vs. CLP + IgG, P < 0.001; +30.72% vs. LPS + IgG, P < 0.001). In contrast, additional supplementation of kynurenine decreased the MCSA in septic mice treated with IL-6-AB (both P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

This study provided novel insights into the tryptophan-IDO-1-kynurenine-dependent mechanisms that underlie inflammatory cytokine-induced skeletal muscle catabolism during intra-abdominal sepsis.

Kynurenine Pathway Metabolites in the Blood and Cerebrospinal Fluid Are Associated with Human Aging

The kynurenine pathway is implicated in aging, longevity, and immune regulation, but longitudinal studies and assessment of the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) are lacking. We investigated tryptophan (Trp) and downstream kynurenine metabolites and their associations with age and change over time in four cohorts using comprehensive, targeted metabolomics. The study included 1574 participants in two cohorts with repeated metabolite measurements (mean age at baseline 58 years ± 8 SD and 62 ± 10 SD), 3161 community-dwelling older adults (age range 71-74 years), and 109 CSF donors (mean age 73 years ± 7 SD). In the first two cohorts, age was associated with kynurenine (Kyn), quinolinic acid (QA), and the kynurenine to tryptophan ratio (KTR), and inversely with Trp. Consistent with these findings, Kyn, QA, and KTR increased over time, whereas Trp decreased. Similarly, QA and KTR were higher in community-dwelling older adults of age 74 compared to 71, whereas Trp was lower. Kyn and QA were more strongly correlated with age in the CSF compared to serum and increased in a subset of participants with repeated CSF sampling (n = 33) over four years. We assessed associations with frailty and mortality in two cohorts. QA and KTR were most strongly associated with mortality and frailty. Our study provides robust evidence of changes in tryptophan and kynurenine metabolism with human aging and supports links with adverse health outcomes. Our results suggest that aging activates the inflammation and stress-driven kynurenine pathway systemically and in the brain, but we cannot determine whether this activation is harmful or adaptive. We identified a relatively stronger age-related increase of the potentially neurotoxic end-product QA in brain.

Increasing plasma L-kynurenine impairs mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation prior to the development of atrophy in murine skeletal muscle: A pilot study

Introduction: L-Kynurenine (L-Kyn), a product of tryptophan (Trp) catabolism, has been linked with impairments in walking speed, muscle strength/size, and physical function. The purpose of this pilot study was to develop a dietary model that elevates plasma L-Kyn levels in mice and characterize its impact on muscle health and function.

Methods: Four-month-old C57BL6J male mice were randomized to either a L-Kyn supplemented (150 mg/kg) or chow diet for 10 weeks. Plasma L-Kyn and Trp levels were measured via mass spectrometry. Primary outcomes included assessments of muscle weights, myofiber cross-sectional area (CSA), nerve-stimulated contractile performance, and mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) and hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) production. Additional experiments in cultured myotubes explored the impact of enhancing L-Kyn metabolism.

Results: Mice randomized to the L-Kyn diet displayed significant increases in plasma L-Kyn levels (p = 0.0028) and the L-Kyn/Trp ratio (p = 0.011) when compared to chow fed mice. Food intake and body weights were not different between groups. There were no detectable differences in muscle weights, myofiber CSA, or contractile performance. L-Kyn fed mice displayed reductions in mitochondrial OXPHOS (p = 0.05) and maximal ADP-stimulated respiration (p = 0.0498). In cultured myotubes, overexpression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma coactivator 1 alpha prevented atrophy and proteolysis, as well as deficits in mitochondrial respiration with L-Kyn treatment.

Conclusion: Dietary feeding of L-Kyn increases plasma L-Kyn levels and the L-Kyn/Trp ratio in healthy male mice. Mitochondrial impairments in muscle were observed in mice with elevated L-Kyn without changes in muscle size or function. Enhancing L-Kyn metabolism can protect against these effects in culture myotubes.

Plasma d-amino acids are associated with markers of immune activation and organ dysfunction in people with HIV

BACKGROUND

d-Amino acids (d-AAs) have been associated with age-associated conditions in the general population but their relevance in people with HIV (PWH), who experience accentuated/accelerated aging has not been studied. We compared d-AA levels in HIV-infected and uninfected controls and explored their association with markers of immune activation, gut permeability and organ dysfunction.

DESIGN

Case-control analysis.

METHOD

Plasma samples from 60 antiretroviral therapy-treated HIV-infected individuals and 59 uninfected controls were analysed. A three-dimensional HPLC system was used to measure d-and l-asparagine, serine, alanine and proline and presented as %d-AA. Additionally, cell-associated and soluble markers of immune activation and senescence were characterized. Kidney and liver functions were expressed as estimated glomerular filtration rate and fibrosis-4 scores, respectively. Mann-Whitney and Spearman rank correlation coefficients were used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

d-Asparagine, d-serine, d-alanine and d-proline were detectable in all plasma samples and correlated with age in HIV-infected and uninfected but not different between groups. Kynurenine/tryptophan ratio was positively correlated with all %d-AAs in PWH and with %d-serine and %d-proline in controls. %d-AAs were not consistently correlated with markers of gut permeability in both groups. All %d-AAs were also correlated with kidney function in both groups whereas age-associated accumulation of %d-asparagine, %d-serine and %d-proline were correlated with liver function and the VACS score in controls.

CONCLUSION

Plasma d-AAs are associated with chronological age and correlated with markers of immune activation and organ decline, though variably, in PWH and controls. Their role in the biology of aging warrants further investigation.

Tryptophan Metabolism and COVID-19-Induced Skeletal Muscle Damage: Is ACE2 a Key Regulator?

The severity of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is characterized by systemic damage to organs, including skeletal muscle, due to excessive secretion of inflammatory cytokines. Clinical studies have suggested that the kynurenine pathway of tryptophan metabolism is selectively enhanced in patients with severe COVID-19. In addition to acting as a receptor for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, the causative virus of COVID-19, angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) contributes to tryptophan absorption and inhibition of the renin-angiotensin system. In this article, we review previous studies to assess the potential for a link between tryptophan metabolism, ACE2, and skeletal muscle damage in patients with COVID-19.

Association Between Tryptophan Metabolites, Physical Performance, and Frailty in Older Persons

Frailty is defined as a syndrome of physiological decline in late life, characterized by marked vulnerability to adverse health outcomes. A robust biomarker for frailty is still lacking. Tryptophan (TRP) metabolism through the kynurenine pathway (KP) plays essential roles in aging, the musculoskeletal system, and physical performance. In this study, we quantified 7 KP metabolites, including kynurenine (KYN), kynurenine acid (KYNA), quinolinic acid (QUIN), picolinic acid (PIC), 3-hydroxykynurenine (3-HK), 3-hydroxyanthranilic acid (3-HAA), and anthranilic acid (AA) using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry in the serum of 85 participants (median age 75; 65% female; 28 non-frail, 29 pre-frail, and 28 frail) at the Nepean Osteoporosis and Frailty (NOF) Study. We looked at the association between TRP metabolites and physical performance, sarcopenia, and frailty. After adjusting for age and sex, our results showed that KYN and KYN/TRP were associated with higher interleukin (IL)-6 levels (r = .324 and r = .390, respectively). KYNA and its ratios to other products (mainly KYNA/KYN, KYNA/QUIN, and KYNA/PIC) were associated with a lower likelihood of frailty by Fried’s criteria (OR 0.93 [0.88, 0.98], P = .009) and Rockwood index (r = −.241, P = .028) as well as a lower likelihood of sarcopenia (OR 0.88 [0.78, 1.00], P = .049). QUIN and QUIN/KYN showed an association with increased IL-6 (r = .293 and .204 respectively), higher likelihood of frailty (OR 1.02 [1.00, 1.04], P = .029 and OR 6.43 [2.23, 18.51], P = .001 respectively) and lower physical function (r = −.205 and r = −.292). In conclusion, different TRP metabolites have various associations with physical performance, frailty, and sarcopenia. Defining the underlying mechanisms may permit the development and validation of new biomarkers and therapeutics for frailty and musculoskeletal conditions targeting specific metabolites of the TRP catabolic pathway.

Specific Metabolites Involved in Antioxidation and Mitochondrial Function Are Correlated With Frailty in Elderly Men

Background

As an age-related syndrome, frailty may play a central role in poor health among older adults. Sarcopenia overlaps with the physical domain of frailty, and most existing studies have analyzed the associated factors of frailty and sarcopenia as an isolated state. Perturbations in metabolism may play an important role in the presence of frailty or sarcopenia; however, the metabolites associated with frailty, especially overlapping with sarcopenia remain unclear. In this study, we aimed to explore whether amino acids, carnitines, acylcarnitines and lysophosphatidylcholines, as specific panels, are significantly correlated with frailty, especially overlapping with sarcopenia, to gain insight into potential biomarkers and possible biological mechanisms and to facilitate their management.

Methods

We applied a targeted high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry approach in serum samples from 246 Chinese older men (age 79.2 ± 7.8 years) with frailty (n = 150), non-frailty (n = 96), frailty and sarcopenia (n = 52), non-frail and non-sarcopenic control (n = 85). Frailty was evaluated using Freid phenotype criteria, sarcopenia was defined by diagnostic algorithm of Asian Working Group on Sarcopenia, and the participants were diagnosed as frailty and sarcopenia when they met the evaluation criteria of both frailty and sarcopenia. A panel of 29 metabolomic profiles was assayed and included different classes of amino acids, carnitines, acylcarnitines, and lysophosphatidylcholines (LPCs). Multivariate logistic regression was used to screen the metabolic factors contributing to frailty status, and orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis was used to explore important factors and distinguish different groups.

Results

In older men demonstrating the frail phenotype, amino acid perturbations included lower tryptophan and higher glycine levels. With regard to lipid metabolism, the frailty phenotype was characterized by lower concentrations of isovalerylcarnitine (C5), LPC16:0 and LPC18:2, while higher levels of octanoyl-L-carnitine (C8), decanoyl-L-carnitine (C10), dodecanoyl-L-carnitine (C12) and tetradecanoyl-L-carnitine (C14). After adjusting for several clinical confounders, tryptophan, LPC18:2, LPC 16:0 and C5 were negatively correlated with frailty, and C8 and C12 were positively related to frailty. We preliminarily identified metabolic profiles (LPC16:0, LPC18:2, glycine and tryptophan) that may distinguish older men with frailty from those without frailty. Importantly, a set of serum amino acids and LPCs (LPC16:0, LPC18:2, and tryptophan) was characterized in the metabotype of older adults with an overlap of frailty and sarcopenia. The metabolites that were most discriminating of frailty status implied that the underlying mechanism might be involved in antioxidation and mitochondrial dysfunction.

Conclusions

These present metabolic analyses may provide valuable information on the potential biomarkers and possible biological mechanisms of frailty, and overlapping sarcopenia. The findings obtained may offer insight into their management in older adults.

Exploring Early Detection of Frailty Syndrome in Older Adults: Evaluation of Oxi-Immune Markers, Clinical Parameters and Modifiable Risk Factors

Ageing is accompanied with a decline in several physiological systems. Frailty is an age-related syndrome correlated to the loss of homeostasis and increased vulnerability to stressors, which is associated with increase in the risk of disability, comorbidity, hospitalisation, and death in older adults. The aim of this study was to understand the relationship between frailty syndrome, immune activation, and oxidative stress. Serum concentrations of vitamins A and E were also evaluated, as well as inflammatory biomarkers (CRP and IL-6) and oxidative DNA levels. A group of Portuguese older adults (≥65 years old) was engaged in this study and classified according to Fried’s frailty phenotype. Significant increases in the inflammatory mediators (CRP and IL-6), neopterin levels, kynurenine to tryptophan ratio (Kyn/Trp), and phenylalanine to tyrosine ratio (Phe/Tyr), and significant decreases in Trp and Tyr concentrations were observed in the presence of frailty. IL-6, neopterin, and Kyn/Trp showed potential as predictable biomarkers of frailty syndrome. Several clinical parameters such as nutrition, dependency scales, and polypharmacy were related to frailty and, consequently, may influence the associations observed. Results obtained show a progressive immune activation and production of pro-inflammatory molecules in the presence of frailty, agreeing with the inflammageing model. Future research should include different dimensions of frailty, including psychological, social, biological, and environmental factors.

The association of circulating kynurenine, a tryptophan metabolite, with frailty in older adults

Despite the accumulating evidence from in vitro and animal experiments supporting the role of kynurenine (a tryptophan metabolite) in a number of degenerative age-related changes, the relationship between kynurenine and frailty in older adults is not well understood. We collected blood samples from 73 participants who underwent a comprehensive geriatric assessment, measuring kynurenine levels using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. We assessed the phenotypic frailty and the deficit accumulation frailty index using widely validated approaches proposed by Fried et al. and Rockwood et al., respectively. After adjusting for sex, age, and body mass index, the frail participants presented 52.9% and 34.3% higher serum kynurenine levels than those with robustness and prefrailty, respectively (P = 0.005 and 0.014, respectively). Serum kynurenine levels were positively associated with the frailty index, time to complete 5 chair stands, and patient health questionnaire-2 score and inversely associated with grip strength and gait speed (P = 0.042 to <0.001). Furthermore, the odds ratio per increase in serum kynurenine level for phenotypic frailty was approximately 2.62 (95% confidence interval = 1.22-5.65, P = 0.014). These data provide clinical evidence that circulating kynurenine might be a potential biomarker for assessing the risk of frailty in humans.

Circulating Mitochondrial-Derived Vesicles, Inflammatory Biomarkers and Amino Acids in Older Adults With Physical Frailty and Sarcopenia: A Preliminary BIOSPHERE Multi-Marker Study Using Sequential and Orthogonalized Covariance Selection - Linear Discriminant Analysis

Physical frailty and sarcopenia (PF&S) is a prototypical geriatric condition characterized by reduced physical function and low muscle mass. The multifaceted pathophysiology of this condition recapitulates all hallmarks of aging making the identification of specific biomarkers challenging. In the present study, we explored the relationship among three processes that are thought to be involved in PF&S (i.e., systemic inflammation, amino acid dysmetabolism, and mitochondrial dysfunction). We took advantage of the well-characterized cohort of older adults recruited in the “BIOmarkers associated with Sarcopenia and Physical frailty in EldeRly pErsons” (BIOSPHERE) study to preliminarily combine in a multi-platform analytical approach inflammatory biomolecules, amino acids and derivatives, and mitochondrial-derived vesicle (MDV) cargo molecules to evaluate their performance as possible biomarkers for PF&S. Eleven older adults aged 70 years and older with PF&S and 10 non-sarcopenic non-frail controls were included in the analysis based on the availability of the three categories of biomolecules. A sequential and orthogonalized covariance selection—linear discriminant analysis (SO-CovSel–LDA) approach was used for biomarkers selection. Of the 75 analytes assayed, 16 had concentrations below the detection limit. Within the remaining 59 biomolecules, So-CovSel–LDA selected a set comprising two amino acids (phosphoethanolamine and tryptophan), two cytokines (interleukin 1 receptor antagonist and macrophage inflammatory protein 1β), and MDV-derived nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide reduced form:ubiquinone oxidoreductase subunit S3 as the best predictors for discriminating older people with and without PF&S. The evaluation of these biomarkers in larger cohorts and their changes over time or in response to interventions may unveil specific pathogenetic pathways of PF&S and identify new biological targets for drug development.

Comparative Metabolomics Study Revealed Difference in Central Carbon Metabolism between Sika Deer and Red Deer Antler

The antler regeneration has been well studied for the past two decades and adopted in the regenerative medicine model for studying on developmental biology. Despite our growing knowledge of functional molecules regulating antler regeneration, we still do not know whether antler from different deer species possess the exact same mechanism or not. Our previous comparative study between sika deer and red deer suggests that the metabolic pathways between them are profoundly different based on protein level. Therefore, the metabolomic technology is used to identify and quantify the metabolites in antler samples, providing interesting insights into differential metabolite profile of antlers between sika deer and red deer. The distinct metabolic characteristics of sika deer compared to red deer provide an opportunity to explain why the red deer antler with a larger size. The enrichment analysis of differential metabolites showed that three pathways including glycine and serine metabolism, methionine metabolism, and pterine biosynthesis had a significant difference between two antler groups.

Kynurenines link chronic inflammation to functional decline and physical frailty

Chronic inflammation is associated with physical frailty and functional decline in older adults; however, the molecular mechanisms of this linkage are not understood. A mouse model of chronic inflammation showed reduced motor function and partial denervation at the neuromuscular junction. Metabolomic profiling of these mice and further validation in frail human subjects showed significant dysregulation in the tryptophan degradation pathway, including decreased tryptophan and serotonin, and increased levels of some neurotoxic kynurenines. In humans, kynurenine strongly correlated with age, frailty status, TNF-αR₁ and IL-6, weaker grip strength, and slower walking speed. To study the effects of elevated neurotoxic kynurenines on motor neuronal cell viability and axonal degeneration, we used motor neuronal cells treated with 3-hydroxykynurenine and quinolinic acid and observed neurite degeneration in a dose-dependent manner and potentiation of toxicity between 3-hydroxykynurenine and quinolinic acid. These results suggest that kynurenines mediate neuromuscular dysfunction associated with chronic inflammation and aging.

Tryptophan-related toxic metabolites known as kynurenines are altered with chronic inflammation, which damages nerves in aged and frail mice and humans.

Circulating biomarkers characterizing physical frailty: CRP, hemoglobin, albumin, 25OHD and free testosterone as best biomarkers. Results of a meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

During aging, individuals can be classified as being in one of 3 different states: robust, frail or dependent. Frailty is described as reversible, so early detection offers the potential of returning the subject to a robust status. There are multiple clinical frailty scales but no gold standard and frailty is not systematically assessed in clinicians' daily practice. Reliable biomarkers of frailty are lacking, however, while their identification and systematic use would make this simple scale a useful clinical tool.

OBJECTIVE

To conduct a review of the literature concerning the biomarkers associated with frailty and to compare in a meta-analysis the plasmatic values of each biomarker in the frail with the robust group.

RESULTS

503 articles were identified on PubMed, 467 on Scopus and 369 on Web Of Science. 67 articles were included, collecting a total of 32,934 robust subjects and 6864 frail subjects. C-reactive protein (CRP) (Standardized Mean Difference (SMD): 0.49 CI 95% [0.37-0.61]) was significantly higher in the frail group whereas hemoglobin (SMD: -0.67[-0.90; -0.44]), albumin (SMD: -0.62[-0.84; -0.41]), 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) (SMD: -0.43 [-0.64; -0.21]) and, in men, free testosterone (SMD: -0.77 [-1.05; -0.49]) were significantly lower in the frail group.

CONCLUSION

We found 5 biomarkers that were associated with frailty (CRP, hemoglobin, albumin, 25OHD and free testosterone in men) belonging to multiple physiological systems. Further cohort studies are needed to verify their ability to screen for frailty.

Immunosuppressive IDO in Cancer: Mechanisms of Action, Animal Models, and Targeting Strategies

Indoleamine 2, 3-dioxygenase 1 (IDO; IDO1; INDO) is a rate-limiting enzyme that metabolizes the essential amino acid, tryptophan, into downstream kynurenines. Canonically, the metabolic depletion of tryptophan and/or the accumulation of kynurenine is the mechanism that defines how immunosuppressive IDO inhibits immune cell effector functions and/or facilitates T cell death. Non-canonically, IDO also suppresses immunity through non-enzymic effects. Since IDO targeting compounds predominantly aim to inhibit metabolic activity as evidenced across the numerous clinical trials currently evaluating safety/efficacy in patients with cancer, in addition to the recent disappointment of IDO enzyme inhibitor therapy during the phase III ECHO-301 trial, the issue of IDO non-enzyme effects have come to the forefront of mechanistic and therapeutic consideration(s). Here, we review enzyme-dependent and -independent IDO-mediated immunosuppression as it primarily relates to glioblastoma (GBM); the most common and aggressive primary brain tumor in adults. Our group's recent discovery that IDO levels increase in the brain parenchyma during advanced age and regardless of whether GBM is present, highlights an immunosuppressive synergy between aging-increased IDO activity in cells of the central nervous system that reside outside of the brain tumor but collaborate with GBM cell IDO activity inside of the tumor. Because of their potential value for the in vivo study of IDO, we also review current transgenic animal modeling systems while highlighting three new constructs recently created by our group. This work converges on the central premise that maximal immunotherapeutic efficacy in subjects with advanced cancer requires both IDO enzyme- and non-enzyme-neutralization, which is not adequately addressed by available IDO-targeting pharmacologic approaches at this time.

Frailty syndrome, biomarkers and environmental factors - A pilot study

Frailty is an age-related syndrome expected to increase over the next decades. This syndrome has been identified to be the most common condition leading to disability, institutionalisation and death in the elderly. The aim of this pilot study is to investigate a possible link between frailty status, biomarkers and environmental exposures. A group of 71 older adults (≥65 years old) was engaged in this study. The study population was classified as 45.1% robust, 45.1% pre-frail and 9.8% frail. A significant higher prevalence of second-hand smokers was found in the pre-frail group when compared to robust. Furthermore, a higher prevalence of robust individuals was found among those consuming home-produced vegetables and water from well/springs. Significant differences were found between data collected in a lifetime exposure questionnaire (LTEQ) and the levels of genotoxicity endpoints and the mercury levels analysed regarding some exposure-related parameters, namely, smoking habits, intake of home-produced vegetables and the use of pesticides in agriculture. Understanding if the way we live(d) or worked can impact the way we age are important questions to be explored. Data obtained in this pilot study encourage further studies on this matter, exploring the role of exposures history and its impact on health.

Molecular mechanisms in cognitive frailty: potential therapeutic targets for oxygen-ozone treatment

In the last decade, cognitive frailty has gained great attention from the scientific community. It is characterized by high inflammation and oxidant state, endocrine and metabolic alterations, mitochondria dysfunctions and slowdown in regenerative processes and immune system, with a complex and multifactorial aetiology. Although several treatments are available, challenges regarding the efficacy and the costs persist. Here, we proposed an alternative non-pharmacological, non-side-effect, low cost therapy based on anti-inflammation, antioxidant, regenerative and anti-pathogens properties of ozone, through the activation of several molecular mechanisms (Nrf2-ARE, NF-κB, NFAT, AP-1, HIFα). We highlighted how these specific processes could be implicated in cognitive frailty to identify putative therapeutic targets for its treatment. The oxigen-ozone (O₂-O₃) therapy has never been tested for cognitive frailty. This work provides thus wide scientific background to build a consistent rationale for testing for the first time this therapy, that could modulate the immune, inflammatory, oxidant, metabolic, endocrine, microbiota and regenerative processes impaired in cognitive frailty. Although insights are needed, the O₂-O₃ therapy could represent a faster, easier, inexpensive monodomain intervention working in absence of side effects for cognitive frailty.

Identification of a Circulating Amino Acid Signature in Frail Older Persons with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Results from the Metabofrail Study

Diabetes and frailty are highly prevalent conditions that impact the health status of older adults. Perturbations in protein/amino acid metabolism are associated with both functional impairment and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). In the present study, we compared the concentrations of a panel of circulating 37 amino acids and derivatives between frail/pre-frail older adults with T2DM and robust non-diabetic controls. Sixty-six functionally impaired older persons aged 70+ with T2DM and 30 age and sex-matched controls were included in the analysis. We applied a partial least squares-discriminant analysis (PLS-DA)-based analytical strategy to characterize the metabotype of study participants. The optimal complexity of the PLS-DA model was found to be two latent variables. The proportion of correct classification was 94.1 ± 1.9% for frail/pre-frail persons with T2DM and 100% for control participants. Functionally impaired older persons with T2DM showed higher levels of 3-methyl histidine, alanine, arginine, glutamic acid, ethanolamine sarcosine, and tryptophan. Control participants had higher levels of ornithine and taurine. These findings indicate that a specific profile of amino acids and derivatives characterizes pre-frail/frail older persons with T2DM. The dissection of these pathways may provide novel insights into the metabolic perturbations involved in the disabling cascade in older persons with T2DM.

Role of dietary protein and exercise on biomarkers of immune activation in older patients during hospitalization

The aim of this study was to examine the effect of short-term protein supplementation (aiming to consume 1.2 g protein/kg body weight per day) combined with moderate resistance training on 3 days of the week on tryptophan-kynurenine metabolism in 40 older patients with hip fracture. Secondary outcomes for physical recovery were hand-grip strength and chair-rise score. Older patients with hip fracture exhibited higher degrees of immune activation, detected by increased neopterin and kynurenine to tryptophan levels compared with reference values for healthy elderly with no significant differences between those who received the exercise-protein intervention compared to the control. Increasing dietary protein intake during hospitalization did not alleviate the Th1-type immune response in the elderly patient. On the other hand, muscularity per se may affect immune activation responses following injury, as improvements in maximum hand-grip strength with the intervention were related to decreases in neopterin levels.

Tryptophan metabolism as a common therapeutic target in cancer, neurodegeneration and beyond

L-Tryptophan (Trp) metabolism through the kynurenine pathway (KP) is involved in the regulation of immunity, neuronal function and intestinal homeostasis. Imbalances in Trp metabolism in disorders ranging from cancer to neurodegenerative disease have stimulated interest in therapeutically targeting the KP, particularly the main rate-limiting enzymes indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase 1 (IDO1), IDO2 and tryptophan-2,3-dioxygenase (TDO) as well as kynurenine monooxygenase (KMO). However, although small-molecule IDO1 inhibitors showed promise in early-stage cancer immunotherapy clinical trials, a phase III trial was negative. This Review summarizes the physiological and pathophysiological roles of Trp metabolism, highlighting the vast opportunities and challenges for drug development in multiple diseases.

Exploring Genetic Outcomes as Frailty Biomarkers

Frailty has emerged as a reliable measure of the aging process. Because the early detection of frailty is crucial to prevent or even revert it, the use of biomarkers would allow an earlier and more objective identification of frail individuals. To improve the understanding of the biological features associated with frailty as well as to explore different biomarkers for its early identification, several genetic outcomes-mutagenicity, different types of genetic damage, and cellular repair capacity-were analyzed in a population of older adults classified into frail, prefrail, and nonfrail. Besides, influence of clinical parameters-nutritional status and cognitive status-was evaluated. No association of mutation rate or primary DNA damage with frailty was observed. However, DNA repair capacity showed a nonsignificant tendency to decrease with frailty, and persistent levels of phosphorylated H2AX, as indicative of DNA breakage, increased progressively with frailty severity. These results support the possible use of H2AX phosphorylation to provide information regarding frailty severity. Further investigation is necessary to determine the consistency of the current findings in different populations and larger sample sizes, to eventually standardize biomarkers to be used in clinics, and to fully understand the influence of cognitive impairment.

Serum cortisol but not oxidative stress biomarkers are related to frailty: results of a cross-sectional study in Spanish older adults

Frailty is a multidimensional geriatric syndrome of loss of reserves and increased vulnerability to negative health outcomes. Cortisol, the major hormone of the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal (HPA) axis, and oxidative stress may be influenced by multiple endogenous and environmental factors throughout the lifespan, triggering changes in organism functioning. Association of elevated levels of cortisol and oxidative stress biomarkers with aging and several age-related diseases is well documented. However, the possible role of these factors on frailty status in older adults has not been extensively studied. Hence, the aim of this study was to conduct a cross-sectional study in 252 older adults (≥65 years old) classified according to their frailty status. Plasma cortisol and biomarkers related to oxidative stress including reactive oxygen/nitrogen species, oxidative DNA damage, and total antioxidant capacity were determined in non-frail, pre-frail, and frail subjects. Results showed significantly increasing cortisol concentrations with frailty burden, but no marked association between any oxidative stress biomarker and frailty status. In addition, dependence on activities of daily living and 10-year mortality risk were also correlated with elevated cortisol levels. Current results support the hypothesis that age-related HPA axis dysregulation is associated with frailty status, although further research is necessary to establish the role of cortisol in the pathophysiology of frailty.

Metabolites Associated with Vigor to Frailty Among Community-Dwelling Older Black Men

Black versus white older Americans are more likely to experience frailty, a condition associated with adverse health outcomes. To reduce racial disparities in health, a complete understanding of the pathophysiology of frailty is needed. Metabolomics may further our understanding by characterizing differences in the body during a vigorous versus frail state. We sought to identify metabolites and biological pathways associated with vigor to frailty among 287 black men ages 70-81 from the Health, Aging, and Body Composition study. Using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry, 350 metabolites were measured in overnight-fasting plasma. The Scale of Aging Vigor in Epidemiology (SAVE) measured vigor to frailty based on weight change, strength, energy, gait speed, and physical activity. Thirty-seven metabolites correlated with SAVE scores (p < 0.05), while adjusting for age and site. Fourteen metabolites remained significant after multiple comparisons adjustment (false discovery rate < 0.30). Lower values of tryptophan, methionine, tyrosine, asparagine, C14:0 sphingomyelin, and 1-methylnicotinamide, and higher values of glucoronate, N-carbamoyl-beta-alanine, isocitrate, creatinine, C4-OH carnitine, cystathionine, hydroxyphenylacetate, and putrescine were associated with frailer SAVE scores. Pathway analyses identified nitrogen metabolism, aminoacyl-tRNA biosynthesis, and the citric acid cycle. Future studies need to confirm these SAVE-associated metabolites and pathways that may indicate novel mechanisms involved in the frailty syndrome.

Immunological alterations in frail older adults: A cross sectional study

Frailty is a progressive physiologic decline in multiple body systems, characterized by loss of function, loss of physiologic reserve, and increased vulnerability to disease and death. This condition is induced by a complex and multifactorial interaction between genetic, biological, physical, psychological and environmental factors. To understand the interplay between the age-related decline of the immune response, and the upregulation of the inflammatory response, the so called inflammaging, we investigated the role of different inflammatory mediators on frailty status in the elderly. The study was performed in a population of 180 older adults (≥65 years), who were classified according to Fried's frailty phenotype. Plasma concentrations of neopterin, tryptophan, kynurenine, phenylalanine, tyrosine as well as kynurenine/tryptophan (Kyn/Trp) and phenylalanine/tyrosine (Phe/Tyr) ratios were analyzed as immune stimulation biomarkers. In addition, nitrite and C-reactive protein levels were measured as indicators of nitric oxide production and acute inflammation, respectively. Significant increases in neopterin, C-reactive protein and Kyn/Trp ratio, and decreases in tryptophan and nitrite concentrations in frail individuals compared with non-frail group were found. Both Kyn/Trp and Phe/Tyr ratios were significantly and positively correlated with neopterin. A positive correlation between kynurenine and tryptophan was also observed. Four parameters, i.e., neopterin, tryptophan, nitrite and C-reactive protein, were found to be strongly related to frailty status, although only nitrite confirmed its role of predictor after multiple regression analysis, supporting its use as a potential biomarker of frailty. Further investigation is required to strengthen the consistence and reproducibility of these findings, and to establish this parameter as a clinical biomarker of frailty.

Frailty in Older Adults Is Associated With Plasma Concentrations of Inflammatory Mediators but Not With Lymphocyte Subpopulations

Frailty denotes a multidimensional syndrome that gives rise to vulnerability to stressors and leads to an increase of the age-related decline of different physiological systems and cognitive abilities. Aging-related alterations of the immune system may compromise its competence culminating in a chronic low-grade inflammation state. Thus, it has been proposed that frailty is associated with alterations in the concentration of pro-inflammatory molecules and in different lymphocyte subpopulations. To provide further support to the validity of that hypothesis, we conducted a cross-sectional study in a population of Spanish older adults (N = 259, aged 65 and over) classified according to their frailty status. Biomarkers analyzed included percentages of several lymphocyte subsets and several inflammation mediators, namely concentrations of interleukin 6 (IL6), C-reactive protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα), and 75 kDa soluble TNFα receptor II (sTNF-RII). Reference ranges for the inflammation mediators were established for the first time in robust older adults. A significant increase in the CD4+/CD8+ ratio and a significant decrease in the % CD19+ cells were observed in the frail group. Progressive increases with frailty severity were obtained in all inflammatory mediator concentrations, especially notable for IL6 and sTNF-RII. Area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve obtained for sTNF-RII (0.90, 95% CI 0.85-0.94, P < 0.001) indicates a high accuracy in the predictive value of this biomarker for frailty. Although results from the current study revealed limited strength associations between frailty and the lymphocyte subsets assessed, data obtained for the inflammatory mediators provide further support to involvement of inflammaging in frailty status in older adults.