Skeletal muscle mitochondrial network dynamics in metabolic disorders and aging

With global demographics trending towards an aging population, the numbers of individuals with an age-associated loss of independence is increasing. A key contributing factor is loss of skeletal muscle mitochondrial, metabolic, and contractile function. Recent advances in imaging technologies have demonstrated the importance of mitochondrial morphology and dynamics in the pathogenesis of disease. In this review, we examine the evidence for altered mitochondrial dynamics as a mechanism in age and obesity-associated loss of skeletal muscle function, with a particular focus on the available human data. We highlight some of the areas where more data are needed to identify the specific mechanisms connecting mitochondrial morphology and skeletal muscle dysfunction.

Automated summary

As the global population ages, there is an increasing number of individuals experiencing age-related loss of independence, with muscle mitochondrial dysfunction playing a key role. Recent research has highlighted the significance of mitochondrial morphology and dynamics in disease pathogenesis. More data is needed to identify the specific mechanisms connecting mitochondrial morphology and skeletal muscle dysfunction.