Study of 270,000 Links Higher Tyrosine to Nearly 1 Year Shorter Male Lifespan
Updated
Updated · ScienceDaily · Sep 6
Study of 270,000 Links Higher Tyrosine to Nearly 1 Year Shorter Male Lifespan
3 articles · Updated · ScienceDaily · Sep 6
Summary
More than 270,000 UK Biobank participants were analyzed, and higher blood tyrosine levels were tied to shorter lifespan in men, with genetic estimates suggesting nearly a one-year reduction in life expectancy.
Mendelian randomization and observational data both pointed to tyrosine rather than phenylalanine, and the male-specific link held after researchers adjusted for related factors.
No significant effect appeared in women, while men were found to have higher tyrosine levels on average, a difference researchers said could help explain part of the sex gap in longevity.
Tyrosine is common in protein-rich foods and sold as a focus supplement, but the study did not test supplements directly and does not show that taking them shortens lifespan.
Researchers said possible mechanisms include insulin resistance and sex-specific stress-response pathways, though they stressed more work is needed before any dietary advice can be made.