This study investigated the impact of aging and physical activity on skeletal muscle mitochondrial function and overall health. Researchers compared young and older adults with similar habitual physical activity levels, as well as exercise-trained older adults and physically impaired older adults. Aging was linked to decreased mitochondrial capacity, exercise capacity, muscle function, and insulin sensitivity, even with sufficient daily activity. Regular exercise training largely counteracted these age-related declines. Mitochondrial capacity correlated with exercise efficiency and insulin sensitivity, supporting a connection between mitochondrial function and age-related muscle deterioration.

L. Grevendonk, N. J. Connell, C. McCrum, C. E. Fealy, L. Bilet, Y. M. H. Bruls, J. Mevenkamp, V. B. Schrauwen-Hinderling, J. A. Jörgensen, E. Moonen-Kornips, G. Schaart, B. Havekes, J. de Vogel-van den Bosch, M. C. E. Bragt, K. Meijer, P. Schrauwen, J. Hoeks