Biologic and epigenetic impact of commuting to work by car or using public transportation: A case-control study

Background and aimsCommuting by public transportation (PT) entails more physical activity and energy expenditure than by cars, but its biologic consequences are unknown.MethodsIn 2009-2010, we randomly sampled New York adults, usually commuting either by car (n = 79) or PT (n = 101). Measures comprised diet and physical activity questionnaires, weight and height, white blood cell (WBC) count, C reactive protein, (CRP) gene-specific methylation (IL-6), and global genomic DNA methylation (LINE-1 methylation).ResultsCompared to the 101 PT commuters, the 79 car drivers were about 9 years older, 2 kg/m2 heavier, more often non-Hispanic whites, and ate more fruits and more meats. The 2005 guidelines for physical activity were met by more car drivers than PT users (78.5% vs. 65.0%). There were no differences in median levels of CRP (car vs. PT: 0.6 vs. 0.5 mg/dl), mean levels of WBC (car vs. PT: 6.7 vs. 6.5 cells/mm3), LINE-1 methylation (car vs. PT: 78.0% vs. 78.3%), and promoter methylation of IL-6 (car vs. PT: 56.1% vs. 58.0%).ConclusionsPT users were younger and lighter than car drivers, but their commute mode did not translate into a lower inflammatory response or a higher DNA methylation, maybe because, overall, car drivers were more physically active.

► Inflammatory and epigenetic traits were similar in car and PT commuters. ► Car commuters were physically more active. ► Commuting habits may impact diet and leisure physical activity.