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Updated: Feb 5, 2026
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Preparation and Culture of Myogenic Precursor Cells/Primary Myoblasts from Skeletal Muscle of Adult and Aged Humans
Published on: February 16, 2017
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MicroRNAs in Skeletal Muscle Aging: Current Issues and Perspectives
Hwa Jin Jung1, Kwang-Pyo Lee2,3, Ki-Sun Kwon2,4
1Department of Genetics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York.
Summary
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are key regulators of skeletal muscle aging and sarcopenia. These small molecules show potential as biomarkers and therapeutic targets for improving muscle health in the elderly.
Area of Science:
- Biogerontology
- Molecular Biology
- Skeletal Muscle Physiology
Background:
- Skeletal muscle constitutes ~40% of body mass, crucial for movement and metabolism.
- Aging leads to sarcopenia, a decline in muscle mass and function, impacting elderly health.
- MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are emerging as critical regulators in muscle development, homeostasis, and aging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To comprehensively review the role of miRNAs in skeletal muscle aging.
- To highlight the potential of miRNAs as biomarkers for sarcopenia.
- To explore miRNAs as therapeutic targets for mitigating age-related muscle decline.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of current research on miRNAs and skeletal muscle aging.
- Analysis of studies investigating miRNA involvement in key aging pathways.
- Synthesis of evidence regarding miRNA function in muscle homeostasis and disease.
Main Results:
- miRNAs significantly influence skeletal muscle aging processes.
- They regulate critical aging pathways, including IGF, SIRT1, TERT, and TGF-β.
- Dysregulated miRNAs are implicated in sarcopenia development and progression.
Conclusions:
- miRNAs are pivotal in skeletal muscle aging and sarcopenia.
- They represent promising biomarkers for early detection and monitoring of sarcopenia.
- miRNAs offer potential therapeutic targets for interventions aimed at rejuvenating aged muscle and enhancing muscle health.
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