N-Butanol Fraction Of Ligustrum Lucidum Benefits Muscular Function And Myofibers Of Aging Ovariectomized Mice And Rats By Retarding Senescence-Related Events In Skeletal Muscle
As we age, particularly for women after menopause, maintaining muscle strength and mass becomes a significant challenge, often leading to a condition called sarcopenia, or age-related muscle loss. This can severely impact quality of life and independence. Recent research has explored the potential of a specific extract from Fructus Ligustri Lucidi, a traditional Chinese herb, to combat these aging-related muscle issues.
The study, conducted on animal models mimicking post-menopausal conditions, revealed promising results. The herbal extract was found to enhance muscle mass and strength, and improve the overall health of muscle fibers. It achieved these benefits by addressing several key factors associated with muscle aging. For instance, it helped to reverse changes in important muscle-building signals, reduced the presence of harmful substances released by aging cells (known as senescence-associated secretory phenotypes), and curbed the overactivity of a hormone system in muscles that can contribute to aging. Additionally, the extract decreased the formation of excessive connective tissue, a process called fibrosis, which can stiffen muscles, and improved how cells respond to insulin, which is crucial for muscle health.
These findings suggest that this natural compound could be a valuable source for developing new treatments to combat muscle weakness and loss in older women, potentially offering a new avenue for maintaining vitality and physical function as we age.
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