Bioimpedance: a new approach for studying longevity

Abstract

Centenarians are the best model to study successful ageing. Unfortunately, they are rare and do not have an aged-matched control population to compare their exceptional characteristics with non-longevous people. Considering the complexity of molecular studies, the opportunity to analyse the centenarian phenotype with anthropometry could be an easy and no invasive interesting solution to identify peculiar measurable variables. In addition to the classic measurements, the bioelectrical impedance could be considered. This method permits to analyse the body composition, in terms of fat free mass and fat mass. Ageing is related to reduced fat free mass and increased body fat. The reduction of the first one is directly responsible for the onset of frailty and sarcopenia. These are typical conditions in elderly that leads to reduced physical strength and loss of immune competence. Thus, it is mandatory to identify specific values and range and perform multiple measurements in aged people and centenarians to address to weight variation modifiable causes, preventing premature death and avoiding diseases.