- Scientists studied why muscles get weaker with age.
- The study used older mice in tests.
- A protein system in cells changed in aging.
- This change made muscle cells work worse.
- A protein regulator increased bad protein production.
- The mice did long treadmill endurance runs.
- Some older mice stayed inactive as controls.
- After exercise, active mice had lower bad activity.
- Exercise reduced the harmful protein levels in muscle.
- Exercise can help protect muscles during aging.
Difficult words
- protein — a natural substance in cells and foods
- regulator — a thing that controls cell proteins
- endurance — ability to do long physical activity
- inactive — not moving or not doing physical activity
- control — a group used for comparison in a studycontrols
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Do you exercise?
- Do you think exercise can help older people stay strong?
- Have you ever used a treadmill?
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