Does regular Tai Chi practice delay ageing of cells and improve cellular energy functions? [ 2008 - 2012 ]

Research Grant

Researchers: Prof Andy Choo (Principal investigator) ,  Dr Veronica Collins

Brief description Tai Chi is a popular traditional health exercise that has been shown to be effective in improving health-related quality of life in aged populations and patients with acute and chronic conditions. However, the scientific evidence and mechanisms of Tai Chi at the level of the cells in the body is not clear. This project aims to investigate the mechanisms of Tai Chi to provide a better understanding of the scientific basis and offering greater confidence in using Tai Chi to promote health. We propose to do a study to compare cellular measures in a group of established Tai Chi practitioners with a group who have not practised Tai Chi. It will include at least 400 members of the general public aged 30 years and over. One group will comprise long-term Tai Chi practitioners (3 years or more) and the comparison group will be those who are just starting to learn Tai Chi. The participants will come from many Tai Chi centres around Melbourne. Our collaborators (2 renowned Tai Chi teachers) will facilitate recruitment. We will collect mouth wash samples from participants and measure two major biomarkers (telomere and mitochondria). The end sections of a chromosome are called the telomere and there is evidence that telomeres get shorter as we age and when we get sick with conditions such as heart problems. Mitochondria are the powerhouse within cells that convert energy from food into a form that cells can use. The mitochondria and its function can be affected by stress in a person’s life and this might be helped by Tai Chi. Since this study aims at analysing the much-claimed benefits of Tai Chi using a scientific evidence-based approach, the two biomarkers we are planning to measure will tell us whether such benefits are reflected in the improvement of the function of cells. Using the biomarkers and some questionnaire information, we will analyse the data to see whether Tai Chi practitioners have longer telomere and better mitochondrial function than those who have not practiced Tai Chi.

Funding Amount $AUD 417,873.07

Funding Scheme NHMRC Strategic Awards

Notes Complimentary and Alternative Medicines