Sarcopenia, a condition characterized by the progressive loss of muscle mass and strength, is a common issue affecting older adults. This loss of muscle mass can lead to mobility problems, frailty, and a decrease in independence among the elderly population. Recent research conducted by Nestle Research and other institutions has identified a compound found in coffee, fenugreek, and the gut microbiome that improves energy metabolism in muscle fibers in humans, mice, and worms. It is estimated that between 10%-16% of individuals over the age of 65 are affected by sarcopenia worldwide, with higher prevalence among those with other health conditions such as cancer and diabetes. As individuals age, they may lose approximately 250g of muscle each year between the ages of 30 and 60, with this process accelerating after the age of 70. This can lead to falls, frailty, and a loss of independence, thereby presenting a significant disease burden in aging populations.
Dr. Kubanych Takyrbashev, a Health and Wellness Advisor at NAO, explained the implications of sarcopenia on aging individuals, highlighting the increased risk of falls, fractures, and functional decline. Declining muscle mass and strength contribute to reduced mobility and agility, making individuals more prone to accidents and dependence on others for routine tasks. Previous research has shown that physical exercise and adequate protein intake are associated with a reduced risk of developing sarcopenia, but there are limited interventions available for affected individuals. Sarcopenia tends to affect men more than women, with factors such as hormonal changes and decreased physical activity playing a role in its development. The study by Nestle Research and collaborators focused on the role of oxidized nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) levels in sarcopenia, with low levels of NAD+ associated with greater muscle aging and sarcopenia. The researchers found that individuals with sarcopenia had lower concentrations of trigonelline, a compound found in plants and animals, and that higher levels of NAD+ in skeletal muscle were positively associated with muscle mass, grip strength, and gait speed.
The study involved analyzing serum levels of male individuals aged 65-79 with sarcopenia and age-matched healthy controls, revealing lower levels of trigonelline in patients with sarcopenia. Further analysis showed that trigonelline supplementation raised NAD+ levels and improved mitochondrial activity in muscle tissues. Experiments on mice and worms also demonstrated positive effects on muscle function and lifespan with trigonelline supplementation. The authors noted that trigonelline, found in coffee and fenugreek, enhanced mitochondrial activity in muscle cells without altering their structure. The study also found that dietary fiber and folate intake were associated with higher trigonelline levels in the body, indicating that the compound could be produced in the gut by the microbiome. These findings suggest that increasing trigonelline consumption could be beneficial for muscle health and overall longevity.
The researchers highlighted the potential translational opportunities to test the clinical efficacy of increasing trigonelline consumption and developing food products enriched with this compound for muscle health. The study’s focus on male subjects for technical and clinical feasibility reasons does not preclude its applicability to both men and women given the conservation of NAD and mitochondrial metabolism between sexes. This research offers new insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying sarcopenia and the potential role of trigonelline in improving muscle function and energy metabolism. By understanding and targeting these mechanisms, future interventions could help mitigate the impact of sarcopenia on the aging population and improve overall health outcomes in older adults.
