Tyrosine Linked to Shorter Lifespan in Men: Study

Topic: Health

A large study of over 270,000 people found that higher levels of tyrosine are linked to a shorter lifespan in men. The researchers used genetic methods to investigate the relationship between tyrosine and longevity.

A team of scientists from the University of Hong Kong and the University of Georgia led by Jie V. Zhao, Yitang Sun, Junmeng Zhang, and Kaixiong Ye studied over 270,000 people in the UK Biobank.

The researchers looked at the levels of two amino acids, phenylalanine and tyrosine, in the blood and their connection to lifespan. They found that higher levels of tyrosine were associated with a shorter life expectancy in men, but not in women.

According to the study, elevated tyrosine levels may have a potentially causal relationship with reduced life expectancy in men. The researchers estimated that higher tyrosine could shorten male lifespan by nearly one year.

The team also found that men generally have higher levels of tyrosine than women, which could contribute to the gap in average lifespan between the sexes.

Why It Matters

This study is important because it can help scientists understand why aging and longevity differ between men and women. It may also lead to new health recommendations for maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Key Facts

• A large study of over 270,000 people found that higher levels of tyrosine are linked to a shorter lifespan in men.
• The researchers used genetic methods to investigate the relationship between tyrosine and longevity.
• Elevated tyrosine levels may have a potentially causal relationship with reduced life expectancy in men.
• Men generally have higher levels of tyrosine than women, which could contribute to the gap in average lifespan between the sexes.
• The study was published in the journal Aging-US in 2025.

Key Terms

Amino acids

The building blocks that the body uses to make proteins.

Mendelian randomization

A method that uses genetic differences among people to test whether a particular biological factor may contribute to an outcome.

Tyrosine

An amino acid that the body uses to produce neurotransmitters, such as dopamine.

Implications

This study is important because it can help scientists understand why aging and longevity differ between men and women. It may also lead to new health recommendations for maintaining a healthy lifestyle.