Muscles and Mitochondrial Decline

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Betterhumans notes more research linking mitochondrial damage with age-related degeneration - this time in our muscles. "Mitochondrial DNA is essential for the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the chemical energy that cells use to function. Reductions in ATP reduce muscle endurance, which contributes to the muscle weakness and loss of muscle mass associated with aging. ... [Scientists] found that older participants had more DNA damage and reduced mitochondrial DNA abundance, resulting in reduced gene expression and in turn reduced ATP production and less muscle endurance." A number of groups are investigating methods of repairing mitochondrial damage; a very promising line of research for healthy life extension.

Link: http://www.betterhumans.com/News/news.aspx?articleID=2005-04-06-2