Muscle Composition Affects Walking Speed in Older Adults
Author Information
Author(s): Ramos Sofhia, Glockner Katherine, Distefano Giovanna, Cawthon Peggy, Linge Jennifer, Leinhard Olof Dahlqvist, Goodpaster Bret, Coen Paul
Primary Institution: AdventHealth
Hypothesis
Adverse muscle composition is linked to lower mitochondrial respiration and slower walking speed in older adults.
Conclusion
Low muscle volume, high fat infiltration, and adverse muscle composition are associated with lower mitochondrial respiration and slower walking speed in older adults.
Supporting Evidence
- Mitochondrial respiration was significantly lower in individuals with low muscle volume, high fat infiltration, and adverse muscle composition compared to those with normal muscle composition.
- Walking speeds were significantly slower in groups with low muscle volume, high fat infiltration, and adverse muscle composition compared to those with normal muscle composition.
- Mitochondrial respiration explained a significant portion of the variance in walking speed among the different muscle composition groups.
Takeaway
Older people with less muscle and more fat have a harder time walking and their muscles don't use energy as well.
Methodology
Muscle composition was determined by whole body MRI and high resolution respirometry was performed on muscle biopsies.
Participant Demographics
Participants were 76.3 ± 5.0 years old, with 59.4% being female.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.01
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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