Can physical activity, oxidative stress and inflammation explain muscle decline with age?

Sarcopenia, an age-related decline in muscle function, are thought to be influenced by oxidative stress and low-grade inflammation, resulting in significant muscle mass reduction and altered physical performance. Indeed, oxidative stress and chronic inflammation in older adults are key factors contributing to metabolic protein disturbances, DNA mutations, and skeletal muscle decline during aging. Additionally, reduced food intake can lead to malnutrition, exacerbating muscle protein loss, oxidative stress and chronic inflammation.

Recent research has shown that a nutritional intervention, i.e. antioxidant supplementation (e.g., vitamins C, E, zinc, selenium) can reduce muscle damage in Facioscapulohumeral Dystrophy (FSHD) by correcting mitochondrial dysfunction and inflammation with a beneficial effect on physical performance and have led to the development of a personalized antioxidant supplementation model, supported by clinical trials (NCT02622438).

Although antioxidant supplementation appears beneficial for FSHD patients, its effects on age-related muscle decline remain unclear. This study aims to explore correlation between oxidative stress, inflammation, nutritional status and physical performance in older individuals. The findings will help establish the physiological basis for a potential antioxidant therapy for age-related muscle deterioration.