Aging is associated with a gradual decline in muscle mass and strength over time. This level of decline is thought to be related to the function of the mitochondria in the body, the main energy generator in our muscle cells. This study compared the differences in the mitochondrial function of pre-frail elderly to active elderly individuals, where results showed how mitochondrial dysfunction is linked to a decline in muscle function as we age.
Our research
October 17, 2022
Aging is associated with a decline in muscle mass and strength, which is thought in part to be due to our mitochondrial function.
Mitochondria are widely distributed in muscle cells, showing a clear connection between the health and function of our muscles and the state of our mitochondria.
To keep our cells healthy and young, our mitochondria generate a process called mitophagy whereby damaged cells are destroyed and recycled into new, highly functioning cells.
The results of this study show mitochondrial dysfunction may contribute to faster muscle loss and function as we age.
Preserving mitochondrial health is possible by consuming certain nutrients in the diet and Urolithin A from pomegranates and supplements.
Authors
Penelope A. Andreux, Marcus P.J. van Diemen, Maxime R. Heezen, Johan Auwerx, Chris Rinsch, Geert Jan Groeneveld, Anurag Singh