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Updated: Oct 28, 2026

Preparation and Culture of Myogenic Precursor Cells/Primary Myoblasts from Skeletal Muscle of Adult and Aged Humans
Published on: February 16, 2017
Skeletal Muscle Aging Is a Significant Contributor to Systemic Aging
Mei-Mei Li1,2,3,4, Xinwei Liu1,2,3,4, Yixuan Li1,2,3,4
1Department of Endocrinology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China.
Abstract:
Skeletal muscle aging is a conserved biological process characterized by progressive declines in muscle mass, strength, regenerative capacity, and metabolic adaptability, contributing to impaired mobility, frailty and age-related diseases. Beyond its canonical role in locomotion, skeletal muscle functions as an endocrine and metabolic organ that actively regulates organismal aging through myokines, metabolites, extracellular vesicles, thermogenic activity, and dynamic communication with distant organs. In this review, we summarize the intrinsic mechanisms driving skeletal muscle aging, including protein turnover imbalance and anabolic resistance, myosteatosis, denervation and motor unit loss, and cellular composition remodeling. We also discuss how aging skeletal muscle influences systemic aging through bidirectional interactions with metabolic organs, brain, cardiovascular system, and bone via endocrine signaling and interorgan communication. Finally, we highlight emerging interventions targeting skeletal muscle aging, including exercise, nutritional strategies, pharmacological approaches, and other novel therapies. Understanding skeletal muscle as both a target and regulator of systemic aging provides a framework for developing strategies to promote healthy aging and reduce the burden of age-associated diseases.
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