Lung aging due to obesity: New study sounds the alarm!

Lung aging due to obesity: New study sounds the alarm!

A new study shows alarming links between obesity and premature aging of the lungs. Loud University of Bonn Obesity can not only change the lung tissue, but also significantly impair the ability to breathe. The results of the research, conducted using complex multi-omics methods, show that the lungs of obese people change in ways typically seen in older people.

The research team analyzed the lungs of both obese and lean mice. Human connective tissue cells from the lungs were also examined. The study found clearly identifiable changes in lung fibroblasts from obese subjects, which specifically store fats and show signs of premature aging. This occurs in connection with changes in the extracellular matrix that gives the lungs shape and stability. These changes could result in reduced elasticity of the lungs, which could explain breathing difficulties.

Risks and inflammation

The study, published inCell Reports, highlights the importance of lung tissue in the study of obesity. The researchers also identified an imbalance of certain protease inhibitors that contributes to the observed changes. The greatest challenge remains the development of analysis methods for the complex connective tissue of the lung and the extracellular matrix.

In addition to their research work at the University of Bonn, Prof. Mareike Lehmann and Prof. Miguel Alejandre-Alcazar from the Justus Liebig University in Giessen have received funding of over 500,000 euros from the German Research Foundation (DFG). Their study examines the specific connection between obesity and the chronic lung disease idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). With increasing age, the risk of suffering from this disease increases, which is promoted by age-related losses of the lung's own defense and regeneration mechanisms.

Influence of lifestyle and diet

The Giessen researchers report that overweight people often have chronic inflammation, which is considered one of the risk factors for the development of IPF. This disease is also negatively influenced by environmental influences and an unhealthy lifestyle during adolescence. Their previous data suggest that obesity early in life impairs structural maturation of the lungs and increases the risk of chronic lung disease.

The research projects of both institutions aim to develop preventive and therapeutic strategies for IPF related to obesity. A particular focus is on how nutritional obesity in early and adulthood can accelerate aging processes and worsen pulmonary fibrosis.

In summary, it can be seen that obesity is not only an individual health issue, but also has far-reaching effects on lung function and general quality of life. The findings of both research groups could be crucial for future therapies and prevention strategies in the area of ​​respiratory diseases. Further insights into this topic are provided by the German Center for Lung Research.