Exercise preserves physical fitness during aging through AMPK and mitochondrial dynamics

TLDR: In this article , the role of dynamic mitochondrial remodeling in exercise was investigated using Caenorhabditis elegans, and it was found that the dynamic cycle of mitochondrial fission-fusion is critical for physical fitness.

Abstract: Significance Exercise is a powerful anti-aging intervention. In muscle, exercise remodels mitochondrial metabolism and connectiveness, but the role of dynamic mitochondrial remodeling in exercise remains unknown. Using Caenorhabditis elegans, we find that the dynamic cycle of mitochondrial fission–fusion is critical for physical fitness. Exercise induces remodeling of the proteome that depends upon mitochondrial dynamics and delays an aging-associated decline in mitochondrial connectiveness and physical fitness. AMPK, a metabolic regulator that senses low energy availability and controls mitochondrial dynamics, is needed for exercise to maintain physical fitness with age and can recapitulate this exercise benefit. Our data identify the mitochondrial dynamics cycle as an essential mediator of exercise responsiveness and an entry point for interventions to maintain muscle function during aging.