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Mechanisms of Exercise in Improving Sarcopenia.
Mengzhu Su1,2, Yingchun Shao3, Qun Fang2
1Cancer Institute, Qingdao Cancer Institute, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China.
Comprehensive Physiology
|July 25, 2025
Summary
Regular exercise combats sarcopenia, a muscle-wasting condition linked to aging. This review explores how exercise interventions and their molecular pathways can prevent and manage age-related muscle decline, aiding global health.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology and Exercise Science
- Molecular Biology and Aging
- Public Health and Geriatrics
Background:
- The global population is aging, increasing the prevalence of age-related diseases.
- Sarcopenia, characterized by muscle mass and strength loss, elevates risks of falls, fractures, hospitalization, and mortality.
- Effective interventions are crucial to mitigate the health and economic burdens of sarcopenia.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the pathogenesis of sarcopenia.
- To examine the effects of diverse exercise modalities on sarcopenia mechanisms.
- To elucidate molecular pathways through which exercise combats sarcopenia.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of sarcopenia pathogenesis.
- Analysis of studies on exercise interventions for sarcopenia.
- Exploration of molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying exercise's effects.
Main Results:
- Exercise is a key strategy for preventing and managing sarcopenia.
- Various exercise types differentially impact muscle physiology and molecular pathways.
- Understanding these pathways can reveal novel therapeutic targets.
Conclusions:
- Exercise interventions can effectively counteract sarcopenia progression.
- Targeting specific molecular pathways offers promising avenues for sarcopenia treatment.
- Addressing sarcopenia is vital for supporting an aging population and reducing healthcare costs.
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