University of Massachusetts Amherst Researcher Illuminates Research in Myosins (Effects of age on human skeletal muscle: A systematic review and meta-analysis of myosin heavy chain isoform protein expression, fiber size and distribution).

A recent study conducted at the University of Massachusetts Amherst examined the effects of age on human skeletal muscle, specifically focusing on myosin heavy chain isoform protein expression, fiber size, and distribution. The research found that as individuals age, there is an increase in protein expression for slow-contracting MyHC I fibers, with corresponding decreases in fast-contracting MyHC II and IIA values. Additionally, older males tend to have more slow-contracting fibers, which may contribute to age-related loss in muscle force, velocity, and power. The study suggests that interventions targeting MyHC expression and fiber size could help reduce the prevalence of sarcopenia, and emphasizes the need for future research to include or focus on females and examine additional factors such as fiber type distribution and physical activity levels. [Extracted from the article]