Inotodiol prevents age-related muscle wasting by restoring mitochondrial function through liver X receptor beta signaling

Mitochondrial dysfunction, leading to impaired energy metabolism and elevated oxidative stress, is a key driver of muscle wasting and associated metabolic disorders. Thus, mitochondria targeting is promising strategy for combating sarcopenia.

In this study, we investigated the therapeutic potential of a phytosterol inotodiol (Ino) in mitigating age-related muscle wasting and metabolic dysfunction. Ino treatment significantly improved muscle mass and function in aged mice and also prevented dexamethasone-induced muscle atrophy. Mechanistically, Ino enhanced mitochondrial function and restored muscle metabolism, as evidenced by increased mitochondrial content, elevated oxidative capacity, reduced lipid accumulation, and decreased oxidative stress.