Abstract
Sarcopenia is characterized by a progressive loss of skeletal muscle mass, strength, and
physical performance. Whereas the cause of sarcopenia is multi-factorial and includes a
sedentary lifestyle and inadequate protein intake, actual loss of muscle tissue is ultimately
attributed to an imbalance between muscle protein synthesis and breakdown rates. It has
been reported that the responsiveness of the muscle protein synthetic machinery to the
anabolic stimuli of physical activity and food (protein) intake may be attenuated in the
elderly. To overcome this so-called “anabolic resistance”, current research focuses on both
acute and long-term nutritional and exercise interventions to maximally stimulate postprandial
muscle protein synthesis rates, and ultimately counteract the loss of muscle mass
and function in the elderly. Apart from inadequate nutrition and physical inactivity, a
reduction in the number and/or function of skeletal muscle stem cells (or satellite cells) has
been suggested to contribute to the development of sarcopenia. Furthermore, the ability to
properly activate, proliferate and differentiate satellite cells and, as such, incorporate newly
formed myonuclei, likely plays a key role in determining the potential for skeletal muscle
fiber hypertrophy following prolonged exercise training. In the present symposium, we will
give young scientists in the field the opportunity to present an overview of some of the
recent findings from various acute and long-term studies in humans. First, the acute effects
of different nutritional strategies and the impact of exercise on muscle protein synthesis
will be addressed. Secondly, changes in satellite cell content and function will be discussed
in relation to both muscle atrophy and muscle hypertrophy in the elderly. Finally, the
benefits of more prolonged exercise and nutritional interventions for muscle mass and
function in the elderly will be presented.
Original language | English |
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Title of host publication | Proceedings of the ICFSR |
Pages | 26-27 |
Volume | 3 |
Publication status | Published - 2014 |
Event | International Conference on Frailty and Sarcopenia Research, Barcelona, Spain - Duration: 12 Mar 2014 → 14 Mar 2014 |
Conference/symposium
Conference/symposium | International Conference on Frailty and Sarcopenia Research, Barcelona, Spain |
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Period | 12/03/14 → 14/03/14 |