Physiology and pathophysiology of musculoskeletal aging: current research trends and future priorities

Alexandrina F Mendes,Ali Mobasheri

doi:10.3389/fphys.2013.00073

Abstract

EDITORIAL article Front. Physiol., 09 April 2013Sec. Striated Muscle Physiology Volume 4 - 2013 | https://doi.org/10.3389/fphys.2013.00073

Highlights

Sarcopenia is a term utilized to define the loss of muscle mass and strength and the consequent functional impairment that occurs with aging (Baumgartner et al, 1999; Waters et al, 2000; Morley et al, 2001)
The authors draw on evidence from cross-sectional studies that have compared young and old muscle to show that in people aged 75 years, muscle mass is lost at a rate of 0.64–0.70% per year in women and 0.80–0.98% per year in men with more rapid concomitant losses in muscle strength; loss of muscle strength is thought to be 2–5 times greater than loss of mass
Kay Ohlendieck takes a molecular approach to musculoskeletal aging by reviewing the applications of proteomic profiling to aging muscle and the “fast-to-slow” muscle transitions that are thought to occur during aging (Ohlendieck, 2011a)

Summary

Introduction

Sarcopenia is a term utilized to define the loss of muscle mass and strength and the consequent functional impairment that occurs with aging (Baumgartner et al, 1999; Waters et al, 2000; Morley et al, 2001). Mitchell and colleagues highlight these issues by reviewing the current knowledge of the decline in human muscle mass and strength with advancing age and the associated risk to health and survival (Mitchell et al, 2012). This is a challenging area given the fact that the process of musculoskeletal aging becomes apparent in the fourth decade of an individual’s life.

Results

Conclusion