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Updated: Mar 2, 2026
The Creation of a Rat Model for Osteosarcopenia via Ovariectomy
Published on: February 21, 2025
[Metformin reduces the signs of sarcopenia in old OXYS rats]
N G Kolosova1,2, A O Vitovtov1, N A Stefanova1
1Institute of Cytology and Genetics, SB RAS, Novosibirsk, 630090, Russian Federation; kolosova@bionet.nsc.ru.
Abstract:
The increasing prevalence of sarcopenia (with the gradually aging population) necessitates the development of effective prophylactic strategies. As promising geroprotectors that comprehensively influence the processes of aging, mimetics of caloric restriction are being actively studied, for example, the antidiabetic agent biguanide Metformin (MF). We tested the influence of MF on the signs of sarcopenia in senescence-accelerated OXYS rats during oral administration (100 or 300 mg per kilogram of body weight per day, with feed) from age 19 to 24 months: the period when the signs of sarcopenia are present. We analyzed the effects of MF on muscular strength of the rats and on structural and functional parameters of skeletal muscle by means of light microscopy. MF slowed down the age-related atrophy of muscle fiber bundles because it slowed the necrosis of some fibers, sclerotic changes in skeletal muscle, and hypertrophy of connective tissue of the perimysium (with a greater effect on the endomysium). MF also substantially improved the blood supply and metabolism in the fibers. As a result of MF treatment, the structure of skeletal muscle of OXYS rats approached that of Wistar rats (healthy control) in terms of qualitative and quantitative parameters; this improvement increased the muscle strength of OXYS rats and abrogated the weight loss that is characteristic of old age.
Insights
Metformin, an anti-aging drug, effectively combats sarcopenia in aging rats by preserving muscle fibers and improving strength. This study shows Metformin
Area of Science:
- Gerontology and Age-Related Diseases
- Skeletal Muscle Physiology
- Pharmacology of Aging
Background:
- Sarcopenia prevalence increases with aging populations, necessitating prophylactic strategies.
- Caloric restriction mimetics, like Metformin, show promise as geroprotectors.
- Metformin (MF) is an antidiabetic agent with potential anti-aging effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of Metformin on sarcopenia indicators in aging rats.
- To analyze Metformin's impact on skeletal muscle structure, function, and strength.
- To evaluate Metformin as a potential prophylactic strategy against age-related muscle decline.
Main Methods:
- Oral administration of Metformin (100 or 300 mg/kg/day) to senescence-accelerated OXYS rats (19-24 months old).
- Assessment of muscular strength.
- Analysis of skeletal muscle structural and functional parameters using light microscopy.
Main Results:
- Metformin slowed age-related muscle fiber atrophy, necrosis, and connective tissue changes.
- Significant improvements in skeletal muscle blood supply and metabolism were observed.
- Metformin treatment improved skeletal muscle structure and abrogated age-related weight loss in rats.
Conclusions:
- Metformin demonstrates a protective effect against sarcopenia in aging rats.
- The drug improves skeletal muscle quality, function, and strength.
- Metformin shows potential as a therapeutic agent for age-related muscle degeneration.
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