Lifestyle Changes Influence Gene Regulation in Skeletal Muscle of Asians

Recent research conducted by scientists from the National University of Singapore has demonstrated that lifestyle interventions, specifically diet and exercise, can significantly alter gene regulation within the skeletal muscle of East Asian individuals. This groundbreaking study highlights the critical role of gene-lifestyle interactions (G x L) in determining metabolic health. Published in the journal Cell Genomics, the study used a well-structured 16-week intervention involving overweight and obese adults, revealing molecular changes tied to metabolic improvements.

The study involved 265 participants initially, with 54 providing paired muscle biopsies before and after the lifestyle program. Researchers performed comprehensive transcriptome sequencing and genetic profiling to examine how gene expression and splicing patterns responded to lifestyle modifications. Results showed participants experienced approximately 10% weight loss and a 30% increase in insulin-stimulated glucose uptake. Notably, 505 genes displayed altered expression linked to mitochondrial function and insulin signaling pathways.

Genetic analysis uncovered hundreds of gene regulatory variants exhibiting G x L interactions, with a notable portion being unique to East Asian populations. When compared with existing GWAS data, researchers identified 16 genes associated with metabolic diseases, including known genes like ANK1 and CRTC3. Interestingly, the influence of certain genetic risk factors appeared to diminish following lifestyle changes, suggesting that personalized lifestyle interventions might help mitigate genetic predispositions.

This pioneering study provides valuable molecular insights into how lifestyle factors influence gene regulation in Asian populations, a group historically underrepresented in genomic research. The data establish a foundation for developing precision health strategies targeting metabolic diseases like obesity and diabetes.

Looking ahead, the research team plans to include female participants and other Asian subgroups while employing advanced transcriptomics techniques to explore cell-specific responses within muscle tissue. The overarching goal is to identify genetic targets for more effective, individualized treatments, emphasizing the importance of understanding gene-lifestyle interactions for better health outcomes. The findings underscore the potential of lifestyle modification not only for metabolic improvements but also for modulating genetic risk factors.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-08-lifestyle-interventions-reshape-gene-skeletal.html