Urolithin A Supplementation Leads to Exercise-Like Effects in Older Adults

Aging is associated with a progressive loss of muscle mass and strength, which leads to a reduced capacity for physical activity. Declining mitochondrial function is associated with this decline in muscle health, and improving the health of the mitochondria through mitophagy could offer a novel strategy to improve muscle health. The purpose of this study was to investigate the benefits of oral Urolithin A supplementation on the muscle health of older adults ages 65-90. The investigators found that supplementing with 1000 mg of Urolithin A over the course of four months resulted in a significant increase in muscle endurance.

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October 30, 2022

Key takeaways

Aging is associated with a decline in mitochondrial function and a reduced ability for physical activity. Urolithin A has been shown to stimulate mitophagy and improve muscle function in animals.

This trial aimed to discover the impact of 1000 mg Urolithin A on muscle health in healthy elderly individuals aged 65-90.

Clinically relevant improvements in a 6-minute walk test were observed in the group supplemented with Urolithin A.

Muscle endurance, as measured in hand and leg muscles, was significantly improved in the Urolithin A group as compared to the placebo.

Urolithin A supplementation produced significant reductions in inflammatory markers, including CRP.

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Authors

Sophia Liu, Davide D’Amico, Eric Shankland, Saakshi Bhayana, Jose M. Garcia, Patrick Aebischer, Chris Rinsch, Anurag Singh, David J. Marcinek