AREAS COVERED: Mitochondrial deficits impact insulin-resistant skeletal muscles, adipose tissue, liver, and pancreatic β-cells, affecting glucose and lipid balance. Exercise emerges as a key factor in enhancing mitochondrial function, thereby reducing insulin resistance. Additionally, the therapeutic potential of mitochondrial uncoupling, which generates heat instead of ATP, is discussed. We explore the intricate link between mitochondrial function and diabetes, investigating genetic interventions to mitigate diabetes-related complications. We also cover the impact of insulin deficiency on mitochondrial function, the role of exercise in addressing mitochondrial defects in insulin resistance, and the potential of mitochondrial uncoupling. Furthermore, a comprehensive analysis of Mitochondrial Replacement Therapies (MRT) techniques is presented.
EXPERT OPINION: MRTs hold promise in preventing the transmission of mitochondrial disease. However, addressing ethical, regulatory, and technical considerations is crucial. Integrating mitochondrial-based treatments requires a careful balance between innovation and safety. Ethical dimensions and regulatory aspects of MRT are examined, emphasizing collaborative efforts for the responsible advancement of human health.
RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: Forty sarcopenic women were divided into an experimental group (EX = 30) and a control group (C = 10). The EX-group was further divided into Maintenance Training 1 (MT1 = 10), Maintenance Training 2 (MT2 = 10), and Detraining (DT = 10). The participants underwent 8 weeks of resistance training, consisting of hypertrophy and strength cycles. Following this, the EX-group had a 4-week period with no exercise or a reduced training volume. Measurements were taken at three time points.
RESULTS: After 8 weeks, the EX-group showed significant improvements in Insulin Like Growth Factor-1 (IGF-1), Myostatin (MSTN), Follistatin (Fstn), Growth Hormone (GH) and Cortisol (Cort) compared to the control group. During the volume reduction period, there were no significant differences between MT1 and MT2 groups, but both groups saw increases in IGF-1, Fstn, GH, and decreases in MSTN and Cort compared to the DT group.
CONCLUSIONS: These findings suggest that performing at least one training session per week with the HIIRT protocol is crucial for maintaining hormonal adaptations in sarcopenic older women.