Alimentation, Santé Musculaire et Sarcopénie

Research Themes and Objectives

Aging is associated with a progressive loss of physiological functions and functional capacities of the body. The musculoskeletal system is particularly affected by aging and chronic pathologies and its alterations lead to a decrease in muscle mass/function, called sarcopenia. The resulting progressive loss of mobility promotes the development of metabolic syndrome, sedentary lifestyle and increased risk of falls. In addition, low skeletal muscle mass/strength is a predictor of morbidity and mortality. Thus, preventing muscle loss during aging and chronic pathologies is essential to maintain physical capacities in old age and to optimize the quality of life of older adults and patients.

The ASMS team has a long tradition of research on skeletal muscle, protein/energy metabolism, and dietary lipid/protein metabolism, with a particular emphasis on the crosstalk between skeletal muscle and adipose tissue. Our research programs focus primarily on the impact of aging and chronic diseases on muscle anabolic responses and metabolic alterations.

The team aims to preserve mobility through novel strategies using diet and physical activity to improve muscle function and prevent comorbidities related to sarcopenia. Our research focuses on 1) the molecular mechanisms of muscle loss, 2) the interactions between skeletal muscle and adiposity, 3) the specific and synergistic actions of food/nutrients and physical activity on muscle mass/function and its metabolism and 4) the clinical study of the development of sarcopenia in relation to aging and chronic diseases.

We focus our research on :

1. Muscle lipotoxicity as a major factor in sarcopenia by exploring the dialogue between skeletal muscle and adipose tissue, particularly regarding mitochondrial function. 
2. Preventive and therapeutic strategies through integrated multimodal approaches to limit the development of sarcopenia during aging and chronic diseases.
3.  Molecular, phenotypic or behavioral signatures of sarcopenia to facilitate its diagnosis and management.