The role of chronic low-grade inflammation in the development of sarcopenia: Advances in molecular mechanisms

Int Immunopharmacol. 2025 Jan 11:147:114056. doi: 10.1016/j.intimp.2025.114056. Online ahead of print.

Abstract

With the exacerbation of global population aging, sarcopenia has become an increasingly recognized public health issue. Sarcopenia, characterized by a progressive decline in skeletal muscle mass, strength, and function, significantly impacts the quality of life in the elderly. Herein, we explore the role of chroniclow-gradeinflammation in the development of sarcopenia and its underlying molecular mechanisms, including chronic inflammation-associated signaling pathways, immunosenescence, obesity and lipid infiltration, gut microbiota dysbiosis and intestinal barrier disruption, and the decline of satellite cells. The interplay and interaction of these molecular mechanisms provide new perspectives on the complexity of the pathogenesis of sarcopenia and offer a theoretical foundation for the development of future therapeutic strategies.

Keywords: Chronic low-grade inflammation; Gut microbiota; Immunosenescence; Lipid infiltration; Sarcopenia.

Publication types

  • Review