Objective
Diminution in muscular performance is a major cause of disablement in old age. This loss appears to be a multi component phenomenon. We will investigate whether and which factors within the muscle itself are responsible for this decline. A major goal of our network is to determine changes in the behaviour of the satellite cells during ageing (i.e. numbers, proliferate capacity in vitro and in vivo, gynogenic program, calcium homeostasis). Satellite cells are the only source for maintenance, growth and regeneration of muscle tissue. Important aspects of the contractile apparatus and capillarization will be investigated as well. Most work will be performed on human tissue in a cooperation of outstanding basic scientists and clinical partners. A diagnostic tool to predict trainability of muscle in the aged will be elaborated.