New Study Reveals Key Differences in Muscle Oxygen Utilization Between Sarcopenic and Non-Sarcopenic Adults

A recent study published in Frontiers in Endocrinology has shed light on the distinct differences in muscle oxygen utilization and blood flow between older adults with and without sarcopenia. The research, conducted by a team of scientists from South Dakota State University, aimed to examine the differences in muscle oxygen utilization and blood flow between non-sarcopenic and sarcopenic adults during pre- and post-prandial periods and during aerobic and anaerobic exercise.

Key Takeaways:

• The study found that non-sarcopenic individuals had 224% greater total hemoglobin + myoglobin (THb) normalized to adipose tissue thickness (Delta THbATT) at 90 minutes post-prandial compared to sarcopenic individuals.
• Non-sarcopenic individuals demonstrated greater Delta THbATT at 90-120 minutes than 15-60 minutes, indicating improved muscle oxygen utilization.
• During aerobic exercise, non-sarcopenic individuals reported approximately 9% greater tissue oxygen saturation index (TSI) compared to sarcopenic individuals.
• Sarcopenic individuals experienced decreased oxidative capacity and blood flow detectable by near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS), potentially contributing to metabolic dysfunction.
• Nutrition and exercise interventions focusing on strategies to improve blood flow to promote muscle health are necessary to reduce sarcopenia and related-metabolic dysfunction progression with aging.

Statistics:

• 10 non-sarcopenic adults (mean age = 72.4 ± 4.9 years, stature = 167.5 ± 7.6cm, body mass = 71.6 ± 12.2kg) were included in the study.
• 8 sarcopenic adults (age = 82.9 ± 11.4 years, stature = 165.7 ± 4.5cm, body mass = 70.3 ± 8.0kg) were included in the study.
• 224% greater Delta THbATT at 90 minutes post-prandial in non-sarcopenic individuals compared to sarcopenic individuals.
• 9% greater TSI during aerobic exercise in non-sarcopenic individuals compared to sarcopenic individuals.

Sources:

• Frontiers in Endocrinology: A Pilot Study Evaluating Differences In Muscle Tissue Saturation and Blood Flow Between Older Adults With and Without Sarcopenia
• Clinical Trials Week: Researchers from South Dakota State University Report on Findings in Muscular Atrophy (A Pilot Study Evaluating Differences In Muscle Tissue Saturation and Blood Flow Between Older Adults With and Without Sarcopenia)
• Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT03701867