Reviewing the Role of miR-181a in Sarcopenia

A great many research groups investigate the mechanisms and biochemistry of sarcopenia, the characteristic age-related loss of muscle mass and strength. The most compelling evidence points of a loss of stem cell activity in muscle tissue as the dominant cause, but numerous other mechanisms may contribute. Many researchers are more interested in proximate causes, age-related changes in muscle cell biochemistry, than in deeper causes of the condition. In this context, the review here examines the role of one microRNA out of a number of microRNAs that are of interest in the pathogenesis of sarcopenia. Frailty is largely associated with sarcopenia, aging-related loss of muscle mass and function, characterised by a progressive and degenerative loss of skeletal muscle mass, quality, and strength during aging. Sarcopenia affects 5-13% of 60-70 year olds and up to 50% of people over 80. The role of microRNAs (miRNAs, miRs) as epigenetic modifiers in regulating loss of muscle mass and function has become increasingly recognised. miRs are short, non-coding RNAs which regulate the expression of approximately two thirds of human genes. In skeletal muscle, miRs have been demonstrated to control multiple biological processes, including development, regeneration, and aging. A number of miRs are involved in the regulation of muscle protein synthesis, that target regulators involved maintaining the balance between muscle atrophy and hypertrophy, and including regeneration of s...
Source: Fight Aging! - Category: Research Authors: Tags: Daily News Source Type: blogs