Associations between leukocyte telomere length and three measures of folate status: a cross-sectional analysis of NHANES 1999-2002.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Shortening of leukocyte telomere length (LTL) is a core hallmark of cellular senescence. Folate provides essential methyl groups for DNA synthesis and repair, theoretically capable of slowing telomere attrition by maintaining genomic integrity. However, current epidemiological studies on folate and LTL are still limited, and most prior investigations have relied on a single metric of folate status.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the associations between LTL and three measures of folate status, dietary intake, serum folate and red blood cell (RBC) folate, to provide more precise epidemiological evidence of folate's role in cellular aging and to establish a scientific basis for potential nutritional intervention strategies.

Methods

This cross-secti

SUBMITTER: Xue Q 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12827169 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature