Osteoglycin across the adult lifespan
Abstract Background Osteoglycin (OGN) is a proteoglycan released from bone and muscle, which has been associated with markers of metabolic health. However, it is not clear whether the levels of circulating OGN change throughout the adult lifespan or if they are associated with clinical metabolic markers or fitness. Methods 107 individuals (46 males and 61 females) aged 21-87 years were included in the study. Serum OGN levels, aerobic capacity (VO2peak), glucose and homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) were assessed. T-tests were used to compare participant characteristics between sexes. Regression analyses were performed to assess the relationship between OGN and age and OGN and fitness and metabolic markers. Results OGN displayed a non-linear, weak “U-shaped” relationship with age across both sexes. Males had higher levels of OGN than females across the lifespan (β=0.23, p=0.03). Age and sex explained 16% of the variance in OGN (adjusted R 2=0.16; p<0.001). Higher OGN was associated with higher VO2peak (β=0.02, p=0.001); however, those aged <50 showed a stronger positive relationship than those aged >50. A higher OGN level was associated with a higher circulating glucose level (β=0.17, p<0.01). No association was observed between OGN and HOMA-IR. Conclusions OGN was characterized by a U-shaped curve across the lifespan, which was similar between sexes. Those with a higher aerobic capacity or higher glucose concentration had higher OGN levels. Our data suggest an association between OGN and aerobic fitness and glucose regulation. Future studies should focus on exploring the potential of OGN as a biomarker for chronic disease.