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Updated: Jun 17, 2026
10:10
Preparation and Culture of Myogenic Precursor Cells/Primary Myoblasts from Skeletal Muscle of Adult and Aged Humans
Published on: February 16, 2017
Human skeletal muscle aging and the oxidative system: cellular events
Paola Rossi1, Barbara Marzani, Silvana Giardina
1Department of Physiological and Pharmacological Cellular and Molecular Sciences, University of Pavia, Italy.
Current Aging Science
|December 22, 2009
Summary
Aging causes declines in strength and mobility due to neuromuscular system deterioration. This review examines oxidative stress in aging skeletal muscles, focusing on reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidant defenses.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Skeletal Muscle Physiology
- Cellular Aging
Background:
- Aging leads to decreased aerobic and functional capacities across physiological systems.
- Neuromuscular system decline in aging results in reduced strength, mobility, and increased fall risk.
- Increased life expectancy exacerbates the impact of age-related conditions on healthcare systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing studies on oxidative stress in aging human skeletal muscles.
- To analyze the role of mitochondrial dysfunction and reactive oxygen species (ROS) in muscle aging.
- To consider physiological factors like sex, fiber type, and muscle function in aging skeletal muscles.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on oxidative stress and aging skeletal muscle.
- Analysis of cellular mechanisms, including mitochondrial function and ROS production.
- Examination of adaptive responses of antioxidant enzymes in aging muscle.
Main Results:
- Aging is characterized by increased ROS production and an imbalance with antioxidant defenses in skeletal muscle.
- Mitochondrial dysfunction is a key cellular mechanism contributing to oxidative stress during aging.
- Skeletal muscle aging involves complex interactions between intrinsic cellular changes and extrinsic physiological factors.
Conclusions:
- Oxidative stress significantly impacts skeletal muscle function during aging.
- Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for developing interventions to mitigate age-related muscle decline.
- Further research is needed to explore sex-specific and muscle-type-specific responses to oxidative stress in aging.
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