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Published on: July 5, 2017
Determinants of VO2 max decline with aging: an integrated perspective
Andrew C Betik1, Russell T Hepple
1Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, 2500 University Dr. NW, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4.
Summary
Aging reduces physical activity capacity due to decreased maximal oxygen uptake (VO2 max). Reduced oxygen delivery dominates early, while declining muscle oxidative capacity and mitochondrial dysfunction become key in senescence.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Physiology
- Gerontology
- Cellular Biology
Background:
- Aging leads to reduced physical activity capacity.
- Maximal oxygen uptake (VO2 max) declines with age.
- Understanding VO2 max decline is crucial for healthy aging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine factors contributing to VO2 max decline in aging.
- To differentiate roles of muscle oxygen delivery vs. utilization.
- To probe the mechanisms behind age-related VO2 max reduction.
Main Methods:
- Critical review of factors affecting muscle oxygen delivery and utilization.
- Analysis of age-related changes in cardiac output and distribution.
- Examination of skeletal muscle oxidative capacity and mitochondrial function.
Main Results:
- Reduced cardiac output and maldistribution impair oxygen delivery in middle age.
- Skeletal muscle oxidative capacity declines with aging, linked to mitochondrial dysfunction.
- VO2 max drops significantly in senescence (old age) due to utilization factors.
Conclusions:
- Oxygen delivery is the primary limiter of VO2 max decline until late middle age.
- Mitochondrial dysfunction and reduced oxidative capacity drive VO2 max decline in senescence.
- Capillary structure remains adequate for diffusion, suggesting utilization is the key bottleneck in extreme old age.
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