The discovery of the protein TP53INP2 suggests that it may help prevent muscle loss in aging individuals. Research shows that higher levels of this protein are associated with stronger muscles and healthier aging. This finding could lead to the development of new treatments that could improve the lives of elderly individuals. Sarcopenia, a common condition in the elderly, is marked by a gradual decrease in muscle mass and function, leading to a lower quality of life and an increased risk of falls, injuries, and dependence. Understanding this phenomenon is essential for creating effective strategies to address it.remain physically active and independent as they age. However, a study co-led by Dr. Antonio Zorzano of IRB Barcelona and Dr. David Sebastián, now a Professor at the University of Barcelona (UB), has identified a potential solution. The study, conducted in partnership with Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu, suggests that higher levels of the protein TP53INP2 in muscle are associated with increased muscular strength and healthier ageing in humans. This finding could be crucial in combating sarcopenia, a condition characterized by the loss of muscle mass that typically begins around the age of 55 and significantly impacts individuals’ ability to stay physically active and independent.performing daily tasks and maintaining overall health. Sarcopenia results in increased frailty, physical disability, and the need for long-term care.
Through experiments on mice and analysis of human muscle tissue samples, the researchers observed a decrease in TP53INP2 levels as individuals age. However, increasing the presence of this protein in muscles, either continuously in young mice or temporarily in older mice using genetic engineering techniques, resulted in a significant improvement in muscle mass and function.
These findings indicate that promoting the activity of TP53INP2 and, consequently, autophagy in the muscle can have a positive impact on overall health. The Faculty of Biology at UB and a member of CIBERDEM discovered that the activation of autophagy through TP53INP2 improved the quality of mitochondria, which are essential for energy generation. This process had previously been shown to be disrupted during aging, according to Dr. Sebastián, a professor in the Department of Biochemistry and Physiology at the Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences at UB.
The partnership with Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu has been crucial in providing access to biologic samples from well-characterized patients. This access allowed the researchers to establish the link between TP53INP2 muscle expression and mitochondrial quality.The advancement in understanding the role of TP53INP2 in healthy ageing in humans not only opens the door for further research, but also suggests potential ways to improve the quality of life for older adults, helping them maintain their independence and energy.
In the future, the researchers will investigate whether genetic factors, physical activity, or other habits such as nutrition, play a significant role in influencing TP53INP2 levels in individuals.
This research was made possible by funding from the Ministry of Science, Innovation, and Universities, the Generalitat de Catalunya, and the Carlos III Health Institute.
Â
