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Author Spotlight: Mitochondrial Remodeling in Skeletal Muscle
Published on: December 1, 2023
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Extracellular matrix/mitochondria pathway: A novel potential target for sarcopenia
Aicha Melouane1, Mayumi Yoshioka2, Jonny St-Amand1
1CREMI, CHU de Québec Research Center, Quebec G1V 4G2, Canada; Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Laval University, Quebec G1V 4G2, Canada.
Mitochondrion
|November 1, 2019
Summary
Sarcopenia, an age-related muscle loss syndrome, may involve mitochondrial dysfunction and extracellular matrix (ECM) changes. Targeting the ECM/mitochondria pathway could offer new drug development strategies for elderly patients.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Muscle Physiology
- Cellular Biology
Background:
- Sarcopenia is a geriatric syndrome defined by progressive loss of muscle mass, strength, and endurance.
- The role of mitochondrial dysfunction in sarcopenia is debated, with age-related declines in skeletal muscle regeneration linked to extracellular matrix (ECM) changes.
- Exercise benefits are questioned due to varied results and risks for sarcopenic elderly.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the involvement of mitochondrial dysfunction and ECM remodeling in sarcopenia.
- To explore potential links between ECM remodeling and mitochondrial dysfunction in aging muscle.
- To suggest future pharmacological approaches for sarcopenia.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on sarcopenia, mitochondrial function, and ECM remodeling.
- Analysis of existing studies on age-related muscle changes and exercise interventions.
- Synthesis of evidence linking cellular and matrix components in sarcopenia.
Main Results:
- Mitochondrial deterioration and ECM remodeling are implicated in sarcopenia.
- A potential link exists between ECM changes and mitochondrial dysfunction in aging muscle.
- Current exercise interventions present challenges for sarcopenic individuals.
Conclusions:
- Targeting the ECM/mitochondria pathway presents a promising avenue for sarcopenia drug development.
- Pharmacological alternatives to exercise may be beneficial for elderly patients with sarcopenia.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the ECM-mitochondria interaction in sarcopenia.
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