Researchers at a Swiss university examined how aging affects muscle lipids and found that ceramides, a class of lipids, build up in muscles over time. The finding points toward potential anti-aging therapies that protect muscle function. The study appears in Nature Aging.
As organisms age, they often become less active and lose both muscle mass and strength. A new investigation shows that aging muscles accumulate ceramides in cells, which may contribute to reduced performance and endurance. The team traced this build-up to heightened activity of the SPT protein and other components required to transform fatty acids and amino acids into ceramides.
In a series of experiments, researchers used ceramide production blockers, including the synthetic Takeda-2 and agents related to myosin pathways, to see if stopping ceramide formation could preserve muscle health. Treated animals demonstrated greater strength and resistance to fatigue compared with untreated counterparts.
Further findings indicated that inhibiting ceramide production triggers muscle stem cells to activate, a process that supports muscle growth and regeneration and helps counter age-related decline.
Expanding the scope, the researchers analyzed thousands of adults living in Helsinki. About a quarter carried a gene variant that reduces ceramide production. Individuals with this genetic form tended to walk longer distances and show stronger muscles, suggesting a protective effect against muscle aging.
The study authors proposed that ceramide-blocking approaches might slow the progression of muscle aging in humans. They have already begun conversations with pharmaceutical companies to explore development paths and potential clinical trials.