Aging of human skeletal muscles.

Abstract

Normal aging in humans is associated with progressive decrease in skeletal muscle mass and strength (sarcopenia) which contributes to frailty and falls. The age associated changes in body composition result from lower levels of anabolic hormones, oxidative damage, neuromuscular alterations and a general decrease in muscle protein turnover. In this review we discuss the potential mechanisms and physical activity as prevention and treatment of sarcopenia.