Here’s the translation to American English:
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A recent study conducted by the Hospital del Mar and its Research Institute has shed light on Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and its link to muscle loss known as sarcopenia. This condition affects approximately one in three COPD patients, and the findings suggest that those with sarcopenia exhibit significantly higher levels of the protein myostatin, a key factor in muscle growth.
The research was published in the European Respiratory Journal Open Research and analyzed tissue samples from the quadriceps of 54 individuals. This group included both patients with COPD and sarcopenia, as well as those with only COPD or who were in perfect health. Although no significant differences in lung health were found between the groups, it was observed that patients with sarcopenia demonstrated a 25% to 30% decrease in quadriceps strength compared to those without the condition.
The findings indicate that myostatin, which normally regulates muscle growth, presents altered levels in patients with sarcopenia. This alteration hinders proper regeneration and muscle growth after damage. Dr. Esther Barreiro, the study coordinator, emphasizes that high myostatin activity triggers responses that inhibit muscle repair mechanisms, resulting in smaller and lower-quality muscles.
This discovery opens new possibilities for the development of treatments that could inhibit the effects of myostatin, which may be crucial in helping patients preserve their muscle strength. As advancements are made in these new interventions, Dr. Barreiro highlights the importance of maintaining a regular exercise regimen and a balanced diet as essential methods for preserving muscle mass in these patients.
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Referrer: MiMub in Spanish
