Motor Unit Fatigability after Long-term Carnosine Supplementation in Elderly Rats

Siamak Seval^*
*Correspondence: Siamak Seval, Department of Quality Management, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland, Email:

Description

Aging brings about a multitude of changes in the body, including alterations in muscle function and performance. One area of interest in mitigating age-related muscle decline is through nutritional supplementation, particularly with compounds like carnosine. Recent research on long-term carnosine supplementation in elderly rats sheds light on its potential impact on motor unit fatigability. This commentary delves into the study's findings, implications, and avenues for further research. Carnosine, a dipeptide composed of beta-alanine and histidine, is known for its antioxidant and buffering properties within muscle cells. It has been studied for its potential benefits in combating oxidative stress, improving muscle endurance, and enhancing exercise performance [1].

As individuals age, the levels of carnosine in skeletal muscles tend to decline, which has led to investigations into its supplementation as a strategy to counteract age-related muscle dysfunction. The study in question involved administering carnosine supplementation to elderly rats over an extended period and assessing its effects on motor unit fatigability. Motor units are the functional units of muscles, consisting of a motor neuron and the muscle fibers it innervates. Fatigability refers to the ability of a muscle or motor unit to sustain force production during repeated contractions. One receiving carnosine supplementation and the other serving as a control group. They then conducted electromyography assessments to evaluate motor unit fatigability in response to repetitive muscle contractions.

The results of the study revealed notable differences in motor unit behavior between the supplemented and control groups. The rats receiving long-term carnosine supplementation exhibited a delayed onset of muscle fatigue compared to the control group. This suggests that carnosine may have a protective effect against early fatigue during sustained muscle activity, possibly through its buffering capacity against acidosis. The supplemented rats demonstrated enhanced endurance during the EMG assessments, indicating a potential improvement in the muscle's ability to maintain force output over time. This finding aligns with previous research suggesting that carnosine supplementation may benefit muscle endurance and performance [2].

The study also hinted at carnosine's role in preserving motor unit function in aging muscles. Motor units in the supplemented rats showed less decline in performance over repeated contractions compared to the control group, indicating a protective effect of carnosine on neuromuscular function. Long-term carnosine supplementation could hold promise as a therapeutic intervention for age-related muscle decline and fatigue. Its ability to delay fatigue onset and enhance endurance may benefit older adults, particularly those experiencing muscle weakness and reduced functional capacity. Sarcopenia, the age-related loss of muscle mass and strength, is a significant concern among the elderly population [3].

Carnosine supplementation, alongside other lifestyle interventions such as exercise, could contribute to mitigating sarcopenia and preserving muscle function with advancing age. Beyond aging, the study's findings also have implications for athletes and individuals seeking to improve their exercise performance. Carnosine supplementation may offer benefits in terms of delaying fatigue, improving endurance, and optimizing muscle function during prolonged or intense physical activity. More research is needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms through which carnosine exerts its effects on motor unit fatigability. This includes exploring its interactions with muscle metabolism, calcium handling, and neuromuscular transmission.

Translating findings from animal models to human populations is essential. Conducting controlled trials involving elderly individuals or populations with age-related muscle impairments can validate the efficacy and safety of carnosine supplementation in humans. Determining the optimal dosage and duration of carnosine supplementation for maximal benefits remains a critical aspect. Studies evaluating different dosing regimens and long-term effects are necessary to establish evidence-based recommendations. Investigating the synergistic effects of carnosine supplementation with other interventions, such as exercise training, nutritional support, and pharmacological agents, could offer comprehensive strategies for promoting muscle health and function [4].

The study on motor unit fatigability after long-term carnosine supplementation in elderly rats provides compelling insights into the potential benefits of carnosine in mitigating age-related muscle decline. Its effects on delaying fatigue onset, enhancing endurance, and preserving motor unit function hold promise for addressing muscle-related issues in aging populations. However, further research, particularly in human studies, is needed to validate these findings and guide the development of targeted interventions for optimizing muscle health and function throughout the aging process [5].

Acknowledgement

None.

Conflict of Interest

None.

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