Researchers used mice to study a protein-control system called mTORC1 that helps build and repair muscle when people are young. The study shows that mTORC1 can become too active during aging. A gene regulator called DEAF1 pushes mTORC1 into this high-activity state.
DEAF1 makes muscle cells produce more protein but also stops the cells from clearing damaged proteins. Over time, this imbalance can harm muscle cells and lead to sarcopenia, which means loss of muscle mass and strength.
The team had older mice do endurance exercise, including a hard treadmill run, while other older mice stayed sedentary. After exercise, the active mice had much lower mTORC1 activity, and exercise lowered DEAF1 via FOXO genes, which may help protect muscle.
Difficult words
- protein-control system — a body system that controls protein use
- gene regulator — a molecule that controls gene activity
- aging — the process of getting older in body
- imbalance — a state where things are not equal
- sarcopenia — loss of muscle mass and strength
- sedentary — not moving much with little physical activity
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Do you think exercise can protect muscle in old age? Why or why not?
- Have you or someone you know done endurance exercise like running? What changed?
- What simple activities can people do to avoid being sedentary?
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