Mitochondrial Function is Impaired in the Skeletal Muscle of Pre-Frail Elderly

Andreux PA, et al. Mitochondrial function is impaired in the skeletal muscle of pre-frail elderly. Sci Rep. 2018;8(1):8548.

Link to Original Publication: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5986740/

myAACD Summary:

With aging, there is a gradual decline in both muscle mass and strength, and an increased risk for developing conditions such as frailty and sarcopenia (age-related loss of muscle mass and strength). Understanding the early biological changes in the muscle cells of pre-frail older adults may help to identify strategies that prevent or manage these conditions. 

This clinical study evaluated the level of mitochondrial (dys)function in the skeletal muscle of adults over the age of 60, including those diagnosed with pre-frailty and an age-matched group of active older adults. The pre-frail participants had reduced markers of mitochondrial health and function, including a lower rate of ATP production. The evidence supports that mitochondrial impairment plays a role in the onset of a pre-frail condition and the related accelerated loss of muscle function.