Search Results (201)

Background: Portable biofeedback technologies are increasingly used in rehabilitation; however, the validity of surface electromyography (sEMG) as a surrogate indicator of deep abdominal muscle function remains unclear. This study aimed to validate a portable sEMG-based visual biofeedback system by examining its relationship with ultrasound-derived measures of deep abdominal muscle activation. Methods: Twenty-nine healthy adults were randomly assigned to a Visual Biofeedback group (n = 14) or a Verbal Feedback group (n = 15). Both groups performed a standardized 2-week core stabilization program. Muscle activation of the deep abdominal muscle complex (transversus abdominis–internal oblique; TrA–IO) and external oblique (EO) was measured using sEMG (%MVIC), while ultrasound imaging was used to assess transversus abdominis thickness and contractile activity (ADIM–Rest index). Between-group differences and correlations between EMG and ultrasound variables were analyzed. Results: The Visual Biofeedback group demonstrated significantly greater improvements in TrA–IO activation and in the preferential activation ratio (TrA–IO/EO) compared to the Verbal group (p = 0.004). Ultrasound analysis revealed significantly greater increases in TrA thickness and contractile activity in the Visual group (p < 0.001). A significant positive correlation was observed between changes in TrA–IO activation and TrA thickness (ρ = 0.51, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Portable sEMG-based visual biofeedback demonstrated physiological relevance by reflecting ultrasound-derived changes in deep abdominal muscle function. These findings support the use of sEMG as a practical surrogate tool for monitoring deep core muscle activation and highlight the potential of portable biofeedback systems in scalable and accessible rehabilitation. Full article

Background/Objective: Playing-related musculoskeletal disorders are highly prevalent among bowed string musicians and may impair performance and career longevity. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of motor control-based interventions on pain, functional outcomes, range of motion, and neuromuscular parameters in musicians playing bowed string instruments. Methods: A systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA 2020 guidelines. PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science Core Collection, and Cochrane CENTRAL were searched from inception to October 2025, and the search was updated before resubmission to identify any newly published eligible studies. Eligibility screening, full-text assessment, data extraction, and risk-of-bias assessment were independently verified by a second reviewer. Risk of bias was assessed according to study design using RoB 2 for the randomized controlled trial and ROBINS-I for non-randomized interventional studies. Results: Four interventional studies met the inclusion criteria. Three studies reported improvements in pain-related outcomes or PRMD severity, and three reported improvements in functional outcomes. One study demonstrated improved cervical range of motion, whereas one study reported altered shoulder girdle muscle activation patterns with reduced playing comfort. Overall, the certainty of the available evidence was limited by small sample sizes, non-randomized designs, and risk of bias. Conclusions: Limited evidence suggests that motor control-based interventions may be associated with improvements in pain and playing-related function in bowed string musicians; however, the evidence base remains small and methodologically heterogeneous, and conclusions should be interpreted with caution. Full article

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a severe and progressive cardiopulmonary disorder with limited treatment options. Camellia petelotii (Merr.) Sealy (CP) contains multiple flavonoids and other phytochemicals, but its active compounds and molecular mechanisms in PAH remain unclear. Active compounds of CP were screened by comprehensive literature mining and absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) evaluation. PAH-related hub targets were identified from transcriptomic data using weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), machine learning, and external validation. Functional enrichment, immune infiltration, and single-cell RNA-sequencing analyses were performed to characterize their biological roles and cellular localization. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations assessed compound–target interactions. The effects of CP were further evaluated in hypoxia-induced rat pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (RPASMCs). Five core bioactive compounds were identified, among which luteolin and quercetin were prioritized for further analysis. HSP90AA1 and ROCK2 were screened as hub targets. Bioinformatic analyses suggested that these targets were mainly associated with the “Lipid and atherosclerosis” pathway, metabolic reprogramming, and modulation of the immune microenvironment. Single-cell analysis showed broad expression of HSP90AA1 and enrichment of ROCK2 in fibroblasts and endothelial cells. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations supported stable binding of luteolin to HSP90AA1. In vitro, CP extract inhibited hypoxia-induced hyperproliferation of RPASMCs and reduced HSP90AA1 protein expression. HSP90AA1 may represent a candidate molecular mediator of CP in PAH, and CP inhibited hypoxia-induced RPASMC proliferation in association with downregulation of HSP90AA1. Full article

Hybridization effectively enhances breeding efficiency and significantly boosts sheep productivity. However, the epigenetic mechanisms underlying the superior production performance of crossbreds remain largely elusive. In this study, Hu sheep were crossbred with Suffolk rams used as the paternal line. We integrated RNA-seq, ATAC-seq, and CUT&Tag (H3K4me3, H3K4me1, H3K27ac, and H3K27me3) techniques to characterize epigenetic regulatory differences in the longissimus dorsi muscle between Hu sheep (HU) and crossbred progeny (SH). Phenotypic and transcriptomic analyses revealed that SH crossbred sheep exhibited superior growth performance (p < 0.05), and the upregulated genes in the Apelin signaling pathway were significantly correlated with eye muscle area (p < 0.05). Utilizing a Hidden Markov Model, we annotated 15 distinct chromatin states in both HU and SH sheep, systematically characterizing the dynamic epigenomic landscapes across the two breeds. In contrast to SH sheep, the genome of HU sheep exhibited enrichment of repressive chromatin modifications typified by H3K27me3. Strong active enhancers (EnhA) were significantly enriched within upregulated genes in SH. A total of 1862 SH-specific and 691 HU-specific EnhA elements were characterized in this study. Motif analysis revealed that SH-specific EnhA were enriched for myogenic MEF2 family motifs (p < 0.05), which promote muscle and vascular development. By integrating multi-omics data, we constructed a putative regulatory network potentially modulated by SH-specific enhancers, identifying CMKLR1, PPARGC1A, and TLE3 as the core hub genes. Collectively, this study provides a robust data resource, identifying candidate genes and regulatory elements associated with crossbreeding-related muscle phenotypes. Full article

Among lower-body techniques in karate, the Mawashi Geri Jodan is regarded as the most frequently applied, technically sophisticated, and potentially hazardous skill. Yet, whether karate athletes of varying proficiency levels exhibit differential mastery of this technique remains empirically unexamined. This study aimed to reveal movement control strategies of elite athletes by comparing kinematic and surface electromyography (sEMG) characteristics of Mawashi Geri Jodan between elite and sub-elite female karate practitioners. A total of eight female karate athletes (4 elite, 4 sub-elite) were recruited. During the execution of the dominant-leg Mawashi Geri Jodan, they struck a karate punching bag positioned at head height, while kinematic and sEMG data were synchronously collected. Analyzed metrics included phase durations, center of mass (COM) displacement, joint angles/angular velocities, and integral electromyography (IEMG) with muscle work percentage of 8 lower limb muscles. Independent-sample t-tests were used for intergroup comparisons (α = 0.05). Compared with the sub-elite group, elite athletes completed the full Mawashi Geri Jodan in significantly less time (0.825 ± 0.07 s vs. 1.030 ± 0.05 s, p < 0.01) and exhibited a shorter core striking phase (p < 0.05). Kinematically, elite athletes showed smaller vertical COM displacement during the striking phase (p < 0.05) and greater hip joint range of motion (p < 0.05). sEMG data revealed significantly higher activation of lower limb prime movers (vastus lateralis, gastrocnemius) during the striking phase and greater rectus femoris contribution during the recovery phase in elite athletes. Elite female karate practitioners demonstrate superior movement efficiency, body stability, and neuromuscular coordination in Mawashi Geri Jodan. Technical training should prioritize hip joint flexibility and stability, synergistic explosive force generation of the lower limb kinetic chain during the striking phase, and active rectus femoris activation during the recovery phase to enhance execution precision and efficiency. Full article

This review aims to explore the potential and mechanisms of selenium-biofortified probiotics as an innovative nutritional strategy for alleviating exercise-induced physiological stress. Exercise, particularly high-intensity or exhaustive exercise, triggers a cascade of physiological perturbations, including oxidative stress, inflammatory responses, gut barrier dysfunction, and muscle damage. Traditional single-nutrient strategies, such as inorganic selenium or probiotic supplementation, are often limited by low bioavailability or a narrow scope of action. Selenium-biofortified probiotics are produced via microbial biotransformation, which converts inorganic selenium into bioavailable organic forms like selenoamino acids or selenium nanoparticles that are loaded onto active probiotic carriers. This creates a synergistic entity combining the bioactivity of selenium with the gut-modulating functions of probiotics. Their core mechanism involves establishing a multi-layered defense system: by providing substrate for key selenoproteins like glutathione peroxidase, they directly enhance endogenous antioxidant defenses; by modulating immune cytokine networks, they downregulate excessive post-exercise inflammation; through probiotic colonization and metabolites, they maintain intestinal epithelial barrier integrity, countering exercise-induced intestinal hyperpermeability; and via the gut–muscle axis, they may regulate muscle metabolism and repair. Animal studies provide evidence for improved exercise endurance and reduced damage markers, but human clinical trials show inconsistent results, highlighting the influence of study design, dosage, and individual baseline status. Future research requires high-quality, long-term human trials to elucidate specific molecular pathways and develop personalized application protocols, advancing this synergistic strategy toward precision sports nutrition. Full article

Background/Objectives: We investigated whether ingestion of caffeine (~1 h before) was beneficial to subsequent morning (07:30 h), mood, strength and cognitive measures. Methods: Fourteen recreationally active males were recruited and completed six sessions: (i) one repetition maximum (1RM) for bench press and back squat; (ii) two familiarization sessions of strength measures; (iv) three experimental conditions administered in a double-blinded, randomized counterbalanced design order, either caffeine (Caffeine [CAFF], 300 mg or 2.8–4.3 mg/kg body weight), placebo (Placebo [PLAC]) ingested at 06:30 h, or no-pill control (No Pill [NoPill]). For each experimental session, on arrival at the laboratory, rectal and skin temperature were measured as well as a battery of cognitive performance through a battery of tests (trail-making test, Rey’s auditory verbal learning test, and Stroop word–colour interference test). Thereafter, maximum voluntary contraction on an isometric chair (MVC) without and with stimulation was conducted, and three repetitions were performed at 40, 60 and 80% of 1RM for bench press and back squat. Average power (AP), average velocity (AV), peak velocity (PV), mean propulsive velocity (MPV), average acceleration (RDV), displacement (D) and time-to-peak velocity (tPV) were recorded using MuscleLab linear encoders. Rating of perceived exertion and effort was asked after each set (RPE). The data was analysed using a general linear model with repeated measures. Results: MVC peak-force values with and without stimulation showed a significant increase in the CAFF condition compared to values for NoPill and with stimulation PLAC conditions (stim: Δ9.0 and 8.7%; no stim: 8.3%; p < 0.05; η²_p = 0.33 and 0.42). Greater muscle % activation was achieved for the CAFF than the other conditions (~6%, p ≤ 0.042; η²_p = 0.33). In the non-stimulated MVC, RPE was perceived as easier (4.8%, p = 0.04). AV and MPV values were higher in both bench press (Δ3.3 and 4.6%) and back squat (Δ7.7 and 9.2%) in CAFF than the PLAC condition (p = 0.031; η²_p = 0.24 and 0.23 and 0.24 and 0.32). CAFF improved auditory total recall compared to NoPill (9.5%, p = 0.040; η²_p = 0.22). Conclusions: Early morning ingestion of caffeine improved MVC to levels observed by others in the evening, as well as some aspects of bench press, back squat and recall performance. Caffeine ingestion had no effect on core temperature, mood, tiredness, alertness or other measures of cognitive performance. Full article

Background: Oral frailty is an emerging determinant of late-life disability. While objective functional measures have been proposed as key indicators, their combined role in predicting frailty among physically active older adults remains unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the association between the presence of oral frailty and lip pressure, bite force, and denture use. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 192 participants aged 60 years or older from Brazil (n = 131) and Portugal (n = 61), all physically active and with ≥20 natural or rehabilitated teeth. Data were collected through a questionnaire on sociodemographic data and the Oral Frailty Index-8. The clinical assessment included lip pressure, bite force, and denture use. Multiple logistic regression identified independent predictors; model fit and discrimination were examined using the Hosmer–Lemeshow test and ROC curve. Results: Participants were mainly female (83.3%), mean age ≈72 years; 76% used dentures and frailty prevalence was ≈49%. Higher lip pressure (OR = 0.986, 95% CI = [0.973–0.999]) and higher bite force (OR = 0.925, 95% CI = [0.885–0.967) were independently protective, whereas denture use (OR = 6.898, 95% CI = [2.994–15.895]) markedly increased oral frailty odds. The model showed good discrimination (AUC 0.779). Conclusions: Even small increases in lip pressure and bite force reduced the likelihood of frailty, while denture use identified individuals at substantially higher risk. These findings highlight orofacial muscle strength and masticatory capacity as core components of oral frailty and support incorporating lip pressure and bite force testing into multidimensional frailty assessment and targeted rehabilitation. Full article

This systematic review focuses on the effect of concurrent high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and resistance training on musculoskeletal function in adult individuals. Four electronic databases (PubMed, Web of Science Core Collection, Scopus, and PsycINFO) were searched for controlled trials in older or middle-aged adults, in recreationally exercising adults, and in athletic or tactical populations, which completed parallel HIIT and resistance training and described musculoskeletal responses to the intervention up to 30 November 2025. A total of 18 trials fulfilled the eligibility criterion and were synthesized narratively across the domains of maximal strength, explosive performance, neuromuscular activity, muscle morphology and architecture, tendon-related outcomes, and adherence and safety. Most 8- to 12-week interventions maintained two to three weekly resistance sessions and were designed in time-effective HIIT formats, increasing or preserving maximal strength in older subjects as well as younger ones that were trained. Explosive performance metrics, including both jump and sprint tasks, were usually preserved or even improved by the maintenance of the power-oriented component in resistance-based exercise sessions. The limited electromyography data indicated improved neuromuscular activation during submaximal tasks, particularly in older subjects, whereas some studies reported subtle increases or maintenance of muscle size and selective architectural patterns during application of progressive loading. Tendon-specific adaptations are difficult to measure, as imaging was seldom available, but functional tasks influenced by the muscle–tendon unit have been studied in multiple studies. Adherence was good, and adverse events were rare in all studies. Overall, the evidence suggests that well-designed concurrent HIIT and resistance training programs can improve or maintain musculoskeletal performance, although the magnitude and expression of these adaptations vary according to population characteristics and intervention design. Importantly, by integrating neuromuscular, morphological, and performance-related outcomes across diverse adult populations, this review provides a musculoskeletal-centered synthesis that extends prior concurrent training reviews beyond cardiorespiratory or interference-focused perspectives. Full article

Background: The relationships between segmental body composition and multidimensional performance outcomes remain insufficiently characterized in adults with limited but regular physical activity. This study examined associations between body composition parameters and functional test performance, while identifying sex-based differences. Methods: Forty-seven adults (31 women, 16 men; age 48.04 ± 11.33 years) underwent segmental bioelectrical impedance analysis and functional assessments including handgrip strength, isometric plank endurance, and single-leg balance. Correlations and sex comparisons statistical tests were performed. Results: Strong positive correlations were observed between segmental muscle mass and handgrip strength (r = 0.74–0.84, p < 0.05), with moderate associations for plank endurance (r = 0.30–0.32, p < 0.05). Fat mass demonstrated inverse relationships with performance, particularly for plank endurance (r = −0.36 to −0.62, p < 0.05). Males exhibited significantly greater muscle mass (p < 0.01), superior handgrip strength (p < 0.01), and longer plank times (p = 0.01). Females presented higher fat mass in lower limbs (p < 0.01). Conclusions: Segmental muscle mass shows strong associations with strength and moderate associations with core endurance, while adipose tissue exhibits inverse relationships. Pronounced sexual dimorphism exists in both body composition and functional capacity. Full article

Background/Objectives: To overcome bottlenecks in the application of Macleaya cordata extract (MCE) in veterinary traditional Chinese medicine, such as low bioavailability of its active ingredients, gastrointestinal irritation, and muscular toxicity, this study aimed to develop a liposomal nano-delivery system loaded with MCE (MCE-Lips) to achieve the core objective of “enhancing efficacy and reducing toxicity” and to explore its potential application and mechanism of action in treating bacterial diarrhea. Methods: MCE-Lips were prepared using the thin-film dispersion method, and their physicochemical properties—particle size, encapsulation efficiency, and drug loading capacity—were characterized. In vitro, cytotoxicity against skeletal muscle cells and NCM460 intestinal epithelial cells was evaluated using the CCK-8 assay. The release of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) from skeletal muscle cells was measured with an LDH assay kit. The expression levels of inflammatory factors (TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β) in both cell types were determined through ELISA. A fluorescent probe was employed to assess cell membrane integrity. The effect of MCE-Lips on the expression of tight junction proteins (ZO-1, Occludin, and Claudin-5) was evaluated via immunofluorescence. Acute toxicity was examined through H&E staining. A bacterial diarrhea model was established using Escherichia coli in mice, and comprehensive safety and efficacy were assessed through hematological tests and gastrointestinal motility evaluation. Finally, untargeted metabolomics and 16S rRNA sequencing were utilized to investigate the underlying mechanisms of action. Results: The prepared MCE-Lips had an average particle size of 86.49 nm and a high encapsulation efficiency of 89.07%. In vitro experiments demonstrated that MCE-Lips significantly alleviated skeletal muscle cell damage, reduced LDH release (p < 0.05), and effectively inhibited the expression of inflammatory factors IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1β (p < 0.05). In NCM460 cells, MCE-Lips exhibited a more pronounced inhibitory effect on LPS-induced release of TNF-α (p < 0.01), IL-6 (p < 0.0001), and IL-1β (p < 0.0001) and enhanced intestinal barrier function by upregulating the expression of tight junction proteins ZO-1 (p < 0.001), Occludin (p < 0.01), and Claudin-5 (p < 0.01). In the bacterial diarrhea model, MCE-Lips showed excellent anti-diarrheal efficacy (p < 0.01). Hematological analysis indicated no systemic toxicity. At the endocrine level, the high-dose group significantly reduced motilin (MTL) levels (p < 0.01), which slowed intestinal motility and prolonged chyme retention, thereby alleviating diarrhea symptoms. Mechanistic studies revealed that it acts by regulating the intestinal metabolic profile and microbial community structure, with Desulfovibrio, Enterococcus, and Streptococcus identified as key characteristic differential genera. Conclusions: For the first time, an MCE liposome nanoparticle system was constructed, and untargeted metabolomics combined with 16S rRNA sequencing were employed to elucidate its anti-diarrheal mechanism. MCE-Lips exerts excellent antibacterial diarrhea effects through multiple mechanisms, including direct cytoprotection and anti-inflammatory action, enhancement of the intestinal barrier, regulation of gut function, and remodeling of the gut microecology. This work provides a novel paradigm for plant-derived nano-anti-diarrheal agents. The systematic evaluation of the pharmacodynamics of MCE-Lips in a piglet bacterial diarrhea model will lay a solid foundation for its eventual market application. Full article

Atherosclerosis is a chronic, progressive disease of the arterial wall and the principal pathological substrate underlying most cardiovascular diseases, including ischemic heart disease, stroke, and peripheral arterial disease. Despite advances in prevention, imaging, and therapy, atherosclerosis remains the leading cause of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality worldwide. From a pathological perspective, the disease represents a dynamic and heterogeneous process characterized by endothelial dysfunction, lipid retention and modification, chronic inflammation, immune activation, smooth muscle cell phenotypic modulation, extracellular matrix remodeling, and thrombogenic surface alterations. This review provides a comprehensive overview of atherosclerosis from a pathologist’s perspective, integrating classical morphological concepts with contemporary insights into immunopathology, plaque classification, and mechanisms of plaque instability. We summarize the structure and function of the arterial wall, the stepwise pathogenesis of lesion initiation and progression, and the histopathological classification systems established by the American Heart Association and subsequently refined through Virmani’s framework. Particular emphasis is placed on plaque instability, highlighting the qualitative features—such as fibrous cap thinning, necrotic core expansion, macrophage-driven inflammation, plaque erosion, and calcification patterns—that determine clinical outcomes rather than luminal stenosis alone. Furthermore, the review discusses the expanding role of immunohistochemical markers in defining plaque biology, including lineage markers and functional indicators of inflammation, matrix integrity, osteogenic signaling, and local anticoagulant balance. These pathological insights are integrated with contemporary risk assessment tools, imaging modalities, preventive strategies, and therapeutic interventions, including emerging lipid-lowering and RNA-based therapies. In conclusion, pathology remains central to understanding atherosclerosis as a biologically active disease and to refining concepts of plaque instability. Integrating histopathology with molecular profiling, imaging, and clinical data is essential for advancing precision prevention and targeted treatment strategies in atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Full article

Cancer cachexia is a multifactorial metabolic syndrome characterized by progressive skeletal muscle wasting, chronic systemic inflammation, and profound metabolic imbalance. Sustained activation of the nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) signaling pathway lies at the core of its pathogenesis, driving muscle proteolysis, impairing regenerative capacity, disrupting adipose tissue homeostasis, and promoting insulin resistance and anorexia. By transcriptionally regulating catabolic and pro-inflammatory gene programs across skeletal muscle, adipose tissue, the liver, and the central nervous system, NF-κB establishes a self-amplifying inflammatory–metabolic loop that perpetuates tissue wasting and systemic dysfunction. Accumulating preclinical and clinical evidence identifies NF-κB as a viable therapeutic target in cancer cachexia. Pharmacologic inhibitors (e.g., SR12343, DHMEQ), anti-inflammatory strategies (e.g., nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and IL-6 receptor–targeting antibodies), and nutritional interventions (e.g., omega-3 fatty acids) have shown efficacy in attenuating cachexia-associated inflammation, metabolic dysregulation, and tissue loss. Notably, emerging multimodal approaches integrating NF-κB modulation with metabolic support, chemotherapy, and behavioral interventions demonstrate synergistic benefits. This review integrates current mechanistic insights and therapeutic advances, highlighting NF-κB as a central pathogenic axis and a compelling target for translational intervention in cancer cachexia. Full article

Vascular remodeling is a characteristic pathological feature of various vascular diseases, including atherosclerosis, restenosis following vascular injury, hypertension, and aneurysms. The phenotypic switching of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) acts as a key driver of vascular remodeling. Under specific pathological stimuli, VSMCs rapidly transition from a contractile to a dedifferentiated phenotype, characterized by enhanced proliferation, migration, and secretory activity. Chromatin remodeling, a core mechanism of epigenetic regulation, orchestrates dynamic changes in chromatin structure and function through ATP-dependent remodeling complexes, histone-modifying enzymes, and DNA methyltransferases. These components collectively translate mechanical stress, metabolic disturbances, and inflammatory signals into reversible epigenetic modifications, thereby precisely regulating VSMC phenotypic switching. As such, chromatin remodeling represents a critical node for therapeutic intervention in vascular remodeling-related diseases. In recent years, a growing body of research has focused on the role of chromatin remodelers in regulating VSMC phenotype. In this review, we focus on the roles of ATP-dependent chromatin-remodeling factors and chromatin-modifying enzymes in the control of gene expression of VSMC phenotype switching. Firstly, we summarize the latest insights into chromatin remodeling and VSMC phenotypic switching, and then discuss recent advances in the identification and functional characterization of chromatin remodeling molecules, emphasizing their implications for VSMC behavior. Finally, we highlight the translational potential of targeting chromatin remodelers in the development of clinical therapies for vascular remodeling diseases and outline future directions for research in this field. Full article

Background: Sleep quality (SQ) and physical activity (PA) are among the strongest behavioral determinants of healthy aging, while dietary behavior and psychological factors act as complementary modulators of these relationships. Although each domain has been studied extensively, their combined influence on subjective life expectancy (SLE)—an individual’s perceived likelihood of living to an advanced age—remains largely unexplored. Methods: This narrative review synthesizes evidence from sleep science, exercise physiology, behavioral medicine, and psychological aging. Literature published between January 2015 and 15 December 2025 was examined across PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science using integrative keyword strategies. Studies addressing SQ, PA, circadian rhythms, psychological health, SLE, or aging-related outcomes were included. Results: The review identifies several converging pathways linking sleep and PA to aging trajectories. Sleep architecture, circadian stability, metabolic regulation, inflammatory balance, and autonomic function represent key biological mechanisms. PA contributes through improvements in mitochondrial efficiency, VO₂max, muscle metabolism, and anti-inflammatory signaling (IL-6 as a myokine). Across studies, both sleep and PA strongly influence psychological health, health perception, and future-oriented expectations, within a broader lifestyle context supported by nutritional status and dietary quality. SLE emerges as a central psychological mediator that shapes motivation, adherence to health behaviors, and long-term health outcomes. Contextual moderators—including age, gender, socioeconomic status, cultural norms, and wearable technology engagement—further influence these relationships. Conclusions: SQ and PA form the core behavioral components of a dynamic system that is further shaped by dietary behavior and psychological well-being and centered on SLE. Our proposed integrative model positions SLE as a key psychological link between lifestyle behaviors and longevity. This framework is hypothesis-generating and requires empirical validation through future longitudinal and interventional studies, underscoring the need for multidomain research integrating behavioral, biological, nutritional and psychological indicators of aging. Full article