Skeletal Muscle Mitochondria in the Elderly: Effects of Physical Fitness and Exercise Training

Context: Sarcopenia is thought to be associated with mitochondrial (Mito) loss. It is unclear whether the decrease in Mito content is consequent to aging per se or to decreased physical activity. Objectives: The objective of the study was to examine the influence of fitness on Mito content and function and to assess whether exercise could improve Mito function in older adults. Design and subjects: Three distinct studies were conducted: 1) a cross-sectional observation comparing Mito content and fitness in a large heterogeneous cohort of older adults; 2) a case-control study comparing chronically endurance-trained older adults and sedentary (S) subjects matched for age and gender; and 3) a 4-month exercise intervention in S. Setting: The study was conducted at a university-based clinical research center. Outcomes: Mito volume density (MitoVd) was assessed by electron microscopy from vastus lateralis biopsies, electron transport chain proteins by Western blotting, mRNAs for transcription factors involved in M biogenesis by quantitative RT-PCR, and in vivo oxidative capacity (ATPmax) by P-31-magnetice resonance spectroscopy. Peak oxygen uptake was measured by graded exercise test. Results: Peak oxygen uptake was strongly correlated with MitoVd in 80 60- to 80-year-old adults. Comparison of chronically endurance-trained older adults vs S revealed differences in MitoVd, ATPmax, and some electron transport chain protein complexes. Finally, exercise intervention confirmed that S subjects are able to recover MitoVd, ATPmax, and specific transcription factors. Conclusions: These data suggest the following: 1) aging per se is not the primary culprit leading to Mito dysfunction; 2) an aerobic exercise program, even at an older age, can ameliorate the loss in skeletal muscle Mito content and may prevent aging muscle comorbidities; and 3) the improvement of Mito function is all about content.