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Blocking the activin IIB receptor with bimagrumab (BYM338) increases walking performance: A meta-analysis
Robert W Spitz1, Scott J Dankel2, Zachary W Bell1
1Department of Health, Exercise Science, and Recreation Management, Kevser Ermin Applied Physiology Laboratory, The University of Mississippi, University, Mississippi, USA.
Geriatrics & Gerontology International
|August 18, 2021
Summary
BYM338, a myostatin inhibitor, may improve walking performance in individuals with impaired function. This drug offers a potential pharmaceutical intervention for muscle loss when exercise is not feasible, enhancing daily activities.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Medicine
- Pharmacology
- Muscle Physiology
Background:
- Muscle size and function decline due to diseases and bed rest.
- Exercise is a common countermeasure, but not always feasible for patients.
- Pharmaceutical interventions, like myostatin inhibitors, are being explored to maintain muscle function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of the myostatin inhibitor BYM338 on walking performance.
- To assess BYM338's impact on the 6-minute walk test (6MWT) as a measure of daily living activity.
- To compare BYM338's efficacy against a placebo.
Main Methods:
- A meta-analysis was performed using a random effects model in April 2021.
- Four studies with a total of 358 participants (244 on BYM338, 114 on placebo) were included.
- The average age of participants was 68 years.
Main Results:
- BYM338 showed a weighted mean effect size of 10m (SE 5, P=0.05) over placebo on the 6MWT.
- Excluding the lowest dosage (1mg/kg) yielded similar results (12m [SE 5], P=0.033).
- The results, while promising, are associated with considerable uncertainty.
Conclusions:
- BYM338 demonstrates potential as a viable pharmaceutical intervention for improving 6-minute walk test performance.
- This drug may benefit populations experiencing impaired physical function, particularly when exercise is contraindicated.
- Further research is warranted to confirm these findings and address the observed uncertainty.
