Vitamin E in sarcopenia: current evidences on its role in prevention and treatment

Shy Cian Khor1, Norwahidah Abdul Karim1, Wan Zurinah Wan Ngah1

  • 1Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Raja Muda Abdul Aziz, 50300 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Insights

Vitamin E, an antioxidant, may help combat sarcopenia by reducing oxidative stress. Further research is needed to confirm its role in preventing age-related muscle loss.

Area of Science:

  • Gerontology
  • Nutritional Science
  • Muscle Physiology

Background:

  • Sarcopenia is a geriatric syndrome defined by age-related loss of muscle mass and strength.
  • Increased oxidative stress from reactive oxygen species (ROS) is a recognized risk factor for sarcopenia.
  • Antioxidant interventions are being explored as a strategy to combat sarcopenia.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the potential role of vitamin E in sarcopenia prevention and treatment.
  • To explore the antioxidant and signaling pathway modulation properties of vitamin E.
  • To assess current evidence on vitamin E's impact on muscle health.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of in vitro and in vivo studies.
  • Analysis of existing research on vitamin E, aging, and age-related diseases.
  • Examination of vitamin E's proposed mechanisms of action on muscle.

Main Results:

  • Vitamin E possesses potent antioxidant properties.
  • Evidence suggests vitamin E may influence signaling pathways relevant to aging.
  • Studies indicate a potential association between vitamin E and muscle health, though not conclusive.

Conclusions:

  • Vitamin E's antioxidant capacity suggests a potential role in mitigating sarcopenia.
  • Further investigation is warranted to clarify vitamin E's specific benefits for muscle health.
  • Vitamin E may offer a therapeutic strategy for age-related muscle decline.

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