Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 19, 2026

Preparation and Culture of Myogenic Precursor Cells/Primary Myoblasts from Skeletal Muscle of Adult and Aged Humans
Published on: February 16, 2017
Factors contributing to the variability in muscle ageing
Hans Degens1, Marko T Korhonen
1Institute for Biomedical Research into Human Movement and Health, Manchester Metropolitan University, United Kingdom. h.degens@mmu.ac.uk
Muscle ageing leads to loss of mass and strength, impacting mobility in the elderly. Lifestyle choices like diet and exercise can significantly slow this natural muscle deterioration process.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Muscle Physiology
- Sarcopenia Research
Background:
- Ageing is characterized by a progressive decline in muscle mass and strength.
- This muscle wasting and weakness significantly impairs mobility and quality of life in older adults.
- Difficulties with daily activities like rising from a chair or climbing stairs are common.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the factors influencing the rate of muscle ageing.
- To identify potential interventions to mitigate age-related muscle loss.
- To understand the variability in muscle deterioration among individuals.
Main Methods:
- Review of factors contributing to muscle ageing.
- Analysis of genetic, hormonal, and inflammatory influences.
- Consideration of lifestyle factors such as diet and physical activity.
Main Results:
- The rate of muscle ageing varies considerably between individuals.
- Genetic factors, hormonal changes, and systemic inflammation contribute to muscle deterioration.
- Adequate diet and regular physical activity can significantly slow muscle ageing.
Conclusions:
- While genetics and hormones play a role, lifestyle interventions are key to managing muscle ageing.
- Slowing muscle ageing through diet and exercise can improve mobility and quality of life for the elderly.
- Age-related changes in the capillary bed may also contribute to reduced muscle mass.
More Related Videos
14:02Ex Vivo Assessment of Contractility, Fatigability and Alternans in Isolated Skeletal Muscles
Published on: November 1, 2012
12:59Improving Strength, Power, Muscle Aerobic Capacity, and Glucose Tolerance through Short-term Progressive Strength Training Among Elderly People
Published on: July 5, 2017
Related Concept Videos
The Effect of Aging on Tissues
Aging
Cellular Clock Theory
The cellular clock theory posits that the human lifespan is closely tied to the finite capacity of cells to divide, a phenomenon governed by telomeres, which are protective caps at the ends of...
Disorders of the Skeletal Muscle
Musculoskeletal disorders
Musculoskeletal disorders involve injuries and conditions affecting the skeletal muscles and associated connective tissues. These disorders can arise from acute biomechanical stresses or chronic overuse and can occur across different age groups. Common injuries include sprains, fractures, and muscular strains, often resulting from...
Bone Disorders
Bone deposition is also affected by the levels of sex hormones like estrogen and testosterone that promote osteoblast activity and bone matrix synthesis. When the level of these hormones decreases due to aging, it causes a reduction in bone deposition. As a result, bone resorption by osteoclasts...
Mitochondria
Alterations in Muscle Tone lll