DNA methylation signatures in peripheral blood mononuclear cells from a lifestyle intervention for women at midlife: A pilot RCT

Physical activity confers many health benefits, but the underlying mechanisms require further exploration. In this pilot randomized controlled trial we tested the association between longitudinal measures of DNA methylation and changes in objective measures, including physical activity, weight loss, and C-reactive protein levels in community-dwelling women aged 55 to 70 years. We assessed DNA methylation from 20 healthy postmenopausal women, who did not have a mobility disability and allocated them to a group-based intervention, Everyday Activity Supports You, or a control group (monthly group-based health-related education sessions). The original randomized controlled trial was 6 months in duration and consisted of nine 2-h sessions that focused on reducing sedentary behaviour for the intervention group, or six 1-h sessions that focused on other topics for the control group. We collected peripheral blood mononuclear cells, both at baseline and 6 months later. Samples were processed using the Illumina 450...