QIMR Berghofer geneticists are unveiling new research that could change how we age. A landmark international study, including contributions by Associate Professor Michelle Lupton, has identified over 400 genes linked to accelerated aging and frailty - many of which are active in key regions of the brain.
The study, published in Nature Genetics, found that genetic activity in the prefrontal cortex, hippocampus and motor cortex plays a significant role in age-related decline. These regions are responsible for decision-making, memory and movement and are things that often get worse with age. The research shows that frailty is not just physical, it’s deeply neurological.
“We’ve discovered that frailty is genetically complex and involves multiple systems, especially the brain,” said Associate Professor Lupton, who leads QIMR Berghofer’s Neurogenetics and Dementia Lab. “Understanding which genes are active in which brain regions helps us target therapies more precisely.”
The team categorised frailty into six genetic domains:
•Poor cognition
•Disability and mobility issues
•Metabolic problems
•Multiple chronic diseases
•Unhealthy lifestyle factors
•Limited social support
Importantly, follow-up research from QIMR Berghofer linking frailty to dementia, found that while overall frailty wasn’t a direct cause of Alzheimer’s disease, specific aspects like disability-related frailty were shown to be causal. Cognitive frailty was also associated with increased dementia risk, suggesting shared biological processes between frailty and neuro-degeneration.
But there is good news, as many of the symptoms linked to these genes (things like muscle weakness, slow walking, memory loss and social isolation) are modifiable. Researchers stress lifestyle changes can help counteract genetic risk.
Tips to reduce frailty risk:
•Eat a balanced diet rich in antioxidants and omega-3s to support brain and muscle health
•Stay physically active with strength and balance exercises
•Engage your brain through reading, puzzles or learning new skills
•Maintain social connections to reduce isolation
•Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol
•Get quality sleep to support cognitive and metabolic function
“The ultimate goal is to use genetic insights to develop personalised therapies and preventative strategies,” said Associate Prof Lupton. “In the future, frailty won’t be inevitable, we’ll have tools to intervene early and help people stay healthier for longer.”