Activation of the Lactate Receptor GPR81 Ameliorates Senescence Hallmarks and Improves Muscle Function in Cellular and Progeroid Models of Aging

Here, we report that loss of the novel lactate receptor GPR81 in aged muscle is associated with impaired lipid oxidation and enhanced lipid accumulation. Knockdown of GPR81 in young healthy myoblasts led to an increase in senescence hallmarks such as DNA damage, accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), mitochondrial dysfunction and impaired autophagy.

Conversely, treatment of senescent myoblasts with GPR81 agonists enhanced lipid oxidation in senescent myoblasts leading to a decrease in lipid accumulation, ultimately resulting in decreased DNA damage, ROS accumulation and enhanced ability to form myotubes. In agreement with our in vitro findings, we observed significant improvement in muscle regeneration and overall health of aged or progeric mice that were treated with GPR81 agonists.