Redox Signaling and Sarcopenia: Searching for the Primary Suspect

Sarcopenia, the age-related decline in muscle mass and function, derives from multiple etiological mechanisms. Accumulative research suggests that reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation plays a critical role in the development of this pathophysiological disorder. In this communication, we review the various signaling pathways that control muscle metabolic and functional integrity such as protein turnover, cell death and regeneration, inflammation, organismic damage, and metabolic functions. Although no single pathway can be identified as the most crucial factor that causes sarcopenia, age-associated dysregulation of redox signaling appears to underlie many deteriorations at physiological, subcellular, and molecular levels. Furthermore, discord of mitochondrial homeostasis with aging affects most observed problems and requires our attention. The search for the primary suspect of the fundamental mechanism for sarcopenia will likely take more intense research for the secret of this health hazard to the elderly to be unlocked.