Sarcopenic obesity: emerging mechanisms and therapeutic potential

Sarcopenic obesity, or the loss of muscle mass and function associated with excess adiposity, is a largely untreatable medical condition associated with diminished quality of life and increased risk of mortality. To date, it remains somewhat paradoxical and mechanistically undefined as to why a subset of adults with obesity develop muscular decline, an anabolic stimulus generally associated with retention of lean mass. Here, we review evidence surrounding the definition, etiology, and treatment of sarcopenic obesity with an emphasis on emerging regulatory nodes with therapeutic potential. We review the available clinical evidence largely focused on diet, lifestyle, and behavioral interventions to improve quality of life in patients with sarcopenic obesity. Based upon available evidence, relieving consequences of energy burden, such as oxidative stress, myosteatosis, and/or mitochondrial dysfunction, is a promising area for therapeutic development in the treatment and management of sarcopenic obesity.