Energy-replenishing, mitochondria-targeted hydrogel microspheres mitigate sarcopenia via cellular senescence amelioration

Background: Sarcopenia is aging-related muscle loss with NAD+ deficiency and mitochondrial dysfunction. Exercise is RCT-proven but hard for many. Oral NMN delivery is poor.

Methods: They built an energy-replenishing hydrogel microsphere. NMN was loaded into SS-31-modified liposomes, then embedded in AHM microspheres for sustained release. They used DEX-induced C2C12 myotubes and mice.

Results: NMN@Lipo-s@AHM raised NAD+ and ATP, improved mitochondrial function, and lowered p16/p53. It raised Desmin and MYH and activated AMPK-SIRT1-PGC1α. In mice, it improved gait and muscle fibers.

Tags: #Sarcopenia #Mitochondria #NMN #Hydrogel

DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2025.114595