Abstract

Humans have long sought means to extend longevity and counteract the effects of aging on physical and mental functioning. Exercise is a highly effective way of treating and preventing the main causes of morbidity and mortality, most of which are associated with aging. Interestingly, the Klotho gene is involved in the aging process. Indeed, overexpression of the Klotho gene is associated with longevity, and experimental animals lacking this gene seem to develop multiple disorders resembling human aging and present a shortened lifespan. Three Klotho-related genes have been identified: α-Klotho, β-Klotho, and γ-Klotho. Exercise seems to play a key role on the secreted form of the α-Klotho gene (S-Klotho) in animal models as well as in humans. We systematically reviewed the available evidence on the associations between exercise and S-Klotho protein regulation.

Keywords: Anti-aging, fitness, physical activity, S-Klotho, biomarkers, health, age.

Graphical Abstract