Age-related changes in skeletal muscle: changes to life-style as a therapy

Abstract

As we age, there is an age-related loss in skeletal muscle mass and strength, known as sarcopenia. Sarcopenia results in a decrease in mobility and independence, as well as an increase in the risk of other morbidities and mortality. Sarcopenia is therefore a major socio-economical problem. The mechanisms behind sarcopenia are unclear and it is likely that it is a multifactorial condition with changes in numerous important mechanisms all contributing to the structural and functional deterioration. Here, we review the major proposed changes which occur in skeletal muscle during ageing and highlight evidence for changes in physical activity and nutrition as therapeutic approaches to combat age-related skeletal muscle wasting.

Cancer cachexia and its pathophysiology: links with sarcopenia, anorexia and asthenia

“…Aging is associated with a chronic state of systemic low‐grade inflammation, characterized by increased plasma levels of pro‐inflammatory mediators like TNF‐α and IL‐6, which are able to stimulate proteolysis mainly via UPR, as previously described for cancer cachexia . However, the role of UPR in sarcopenia is still contentious . Some studies have described an up‐regulation of components of the UPR in sarcopenia while other have shown a down‐regulation or no differences …”

“…Additionally, a loss of motoneurons, neuromuscular remodelling, denervation and fibre‐type switch may also contribute to reduced numbers of muscle fibres and the overall muscle mass …”

Impact of Melatonin on Skeletal Muscle and Exercise

“…Altered oxidative balance and abnormal mitochondria characterize DMD, a severe genetic disorder associated with muscle weaning and atrophy [112]. Melatonin, which was successfully administered as a nutraceutical compound in preclinical mice models and in DMD patients, ameliorated muscle metabolism and strength [113,114]. Indeed, the indole sustained the antioxidant muscular potential, increasing total glutathione content and promoting an effective contraction.…”

Functional Changes Induced by Short Term Caloric Restriction in Cardiac and Skeletal Muscle Mitochondria

“…Heart and skeletal muscle exhibit several detrimental changes during aging, and are key tissues in age-related dysfunctions (McCormick et al, 2018;Chiao & Rabinovitch, 2015;López-Otín et al, 2013;de Melo et al, 2018). Both display a high dependence on aerobic metabolism for their performance, and remarkable metabolic plasticity, with adaptations to use different substrates, as well as to changes in oxygen and nutrient supply (Lesnefski, et al 2017;Chouchani et al, 2014;Gillani et al, 2012).…”