The journal Communications Biology reported that a study conducted by scientists from the U.S. Biomedical Research Institute has revealed a key mechanism that could form the basis for treating age-related muscle weakness. The researchers explained that the protein TnC plays a crucial role in maintaining the level of muscle stem cells and helps muscles recover. With age, the concentration of this protein decreases, leading to stem cell depletion and impaired muscle tissue regeneration.
The study showed that specialized support cells known as fibroblasts (FAPs) are responsible for secreting the TnC protein, and that it interacts with stem cells via the Annexin A2 receptor. Experiments on mice demonstrated that animals lacking TnC protein had fewer stem cells and their muscles recovered more poorly after injuries. The experiments also showed that the protein deficiency could be partially compensated for in older animals, as adding TnC improved stem cell migration to the injury site and enhanced their regeneration.
Scientists believe that restoring TnC protein levels could open a new avenue for treating sarcopenia, an age-related loss of muscle mass and strength. However, they point out that the protein is large and difficult to inject directly into the body, necessitating the development of safe delivery techniques to target tissues.
