The effect of branched chain amino acids on skeletal muscle mitochondrial function in young and elderly adults.

ABSTRACT:

Context

A reduction in maximal mitochondrial ATP production rate (MAPR) and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) abundance occurs with age in association with muscle weakness and reduced endurance in elderly people. Branched chain amino acids (BCAA) have been extensively used to improve physical performance.

Objective

The objective was to determine whether an 8-h infusion of BCAA enhances MAPR equally in healthy young and elderly adults.

Methods

Using a crossover study design, we compared the effect BCAA vs. saline infusion in 12 young (23.0 +/- 0.8 yr) and 12 elderly (70.7 +/- 1.1 yr) participants matched for sex and body mass index. Skeletal muscle MAPR and mtDNA abundance were measured in muscle biopsy samples obtained before and at the end of the 8-h infusion.

Results

SUBMITTER: Tatpati LL 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2840857 | biostudies-literature | 2010 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature