Subcutaneous adipose tissue-secreted proteins as endocrine regulators of physical and cognitive function in older adults

Declines in skeletal muscle and cognitive function in older adults have been linked to abnormalities in abdominal subcutaneous adipose tissue (ASAT), yet the underlying molecular mediators remain poorly understood. Here, leveraging ASAT transcriptomics and explant-conditioned media proteomics from participants in the Study of Muscle, Mobility and Aging (SOMMA; age ≥70 years, n = 229), we identified ASAT gene clusters and secreted proteins strongly associated with comprehensive assessments of physical and cognitive function in older adults. ASAT inflammation and secreted immunoglobulins were identified as key signatures of aging-associated physical and cognitive performance limitations. Systems genetics analysis confirmed secreted-SERPINF1 as a negative regulator of skeletal muscle contraction and highlighted its potential role in inducing inflammation in the heart in silico . Additionally, novel ASAT-secreted proteins such as NID2 and APOA4 were implicated in mediating ASAT crosstalk with skeletal muscle and brain in silico . Our framework provides insights into ASAT-driven tissue crosstalk underlying physical and cognitive performance in older adults and offers a valuable resource for understanding the role of ASAT in human aging. • ASAT inflammation and immunoglobulin secretion are strongly linked to reduced physical and cognitive function in older adults. • Novel ASAT-secreted proteins were identified to be significantly associated with physical and cognitive performance. • Systems genetics analysis validated endocrine roles of ASAT-secreted proteins in skeletal muscle, heart, and brain.