Metabolic and molecular aspects of sarcopenia

Sarcopenia refers to the loss of skeletal muscle protein mass and function that occurs with advancing age. Sarcopenia impairs motor function, and is associated with dysregulated substrate metabolism and reduced quality of life in the elderly. This chapter outlines several phenotypic alterations that are associated with sarcopenia, and considers several physiological processes and molecular level signaling pathways that may be dysregulated and involved in the pathogenesis of sarcopenia. The pathogenesis is complex and multifactorial. A better understanding of the underlying mechanisms will help identify potential therapeutic targets, and lead to better treatments for sarcopenia.