Abstract

There is growing evidence that higher levels of inflammatory markers are associated with physical decline in older persons, possibly through the catabolic effects of inflammatory markers on muscle. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between serum levels of inflammatory markers and loss of muscle mass and strength in older persons. Using data on 2,177 men and women in the Health, Aging, and Body Composition Study, we examined 5-year change in thigh muscle area estimated by computed tomography and grip and knee extensor strength in relation to serum levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), C-reactive protein, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), and soluble receptors (measured in a subsample) at baseline. Higher levels of inflammatory markers were generally associated with greater 5-year decline in thigh muscle area. Most associations, with the exception of soluble receptors, were attenuated by adjustment for 5-year change in weight. Higher TNF-alpha and interleukin-6 soluble receptor levels remained associated with greater decline in grip strength in men. Analyses in a subgroup of weight-stable persons showed that higher levels of TNF-alpha and its soluble receptors were associated with 5-year decline in thigh muscle area and that higher levels of TNF-alpha were associated with decline in grip strength. TNF-alpha and its soluble receptors showed the most consistent associations with decline in muscle mass and strength. The results suggest a weight-associated pathway for inflammation in sarcopenia.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.