The process of aging is complex and is associated with increased risk of illness and death. Researchers have identified nine classic hallmarks of aging that influence the aging process and susceptibility to disease. One result of aging is sarcopenia, a condition characterized by the loss of muscle strength and mass. The causes of sarcopenia are multifaceted, and while research in this area is growing, there is still a lack of human studies, especially in older women.
In this evaluation, we take a closer look at how the classic hallmarks of aging, such as genomic instability and telomere attrition, as well as novel hallmarks like inflammation and neural dysfunction, contribute to the aging of skeletal muscle and the development of sarcopenia. We also consider their clinical relevance and potential for translation into therapeutic interventions.
The evidence points to epigenetic alteration, mitochondrial dysfunction, neural dysfunction, and inflammation as key hallmarks of skeletal muscle aging, with relevance to sarcopenia. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for developing effective treatments for age-related muscle loss.
Link: https://doi.org/10.1042/CS20230319
