Higher tyrosine levels linked to shorter life expectancy in men
An analysis of UK Biobank data involving more than 270,000 people linked a higher concentration of the amino acid tyrosine in the blood to shorter life expectancy in men. No statistically significant association between tyrosine levels and life expectancy was found in women, ScienceDaily reports.
UK Biobank data and genetic analysis
Researchers from the University of Hong Kong and the University of Georgia analyzed data from UK Biobank participants, a large British database of medical and genetic information. They studied the association between blood concentrations of phenylalanine and tyrosine, the risk of death, and projected life expectancy.
Initially, higher levels of both amino acids were associated with a greater risk of death. After a more detailed analysis, tyrosine specifically showed this association consistently. The scientists also used Mendelian randomization, a genetic method that can provide additional clues about a possible causal relationship rather than merely a statistical association.
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Estimate for men and cautions regarding supplements
The genetic analysis suggested a potentially causal association between elevated tyrosine levels and a reduction in men's life expectancy of nearly one year. The result remained after accounting for phenylalanine and other related factors. Men were also generally found to have higher tyrosine levels than women. After controlling for tyrosine, phenylalanine showed no association with life expectancy in either men or women.
Tyrosine is found in protein-rich foods and is sold as a dietary supplement marketed to improve concentration, alertness, and mental performance. However, the authors did not directly examine the effects of tyrosine supplements, so the findings do not prove that taking them shortens life. Among the possible but still unconfirmed explanations, the researchers cite insulin resistance and differences in hormonal and stress-related signaling pathways.
