Sarcopenia in Parkinson's disease: from pathogenesis to interventions

Abstract

Parkinson's disease (PD) and sarcopenia are prevalent age-related conditions that often coexist in affected individuals. Sarcopenia is particularly common among PD patients, with severe cases affecting approximately one in five individuals with the disease. Furthermore, sarcopenia is closely linked to the accelerated progression of PD, diminished quality of life, greater susceptibility to falls and fractures, and increased mortality risk. Although the precise mechanisms remain unclear, numerous studies suggest that factors such as the accumulation of α-Synuclein in skeletal muscle, loss of motor neurons, inflammation, phosphate toxicity, hormonal dysregulation, vitamin D deficiency, intestinal flora imbalances, and dysfunction of the gut-muscle-brain axis contribute to sarcopenia in PD. Understanding these mechanisms provides valuable insights into the relationship between PD and sarcopenia and establishes a foundation for future research and therapeutic strategies. This review examines the mechanisms underlying sarcopenia in PD, methods for its screening and assessment, and potential avenues for future research, including strategies for risk reduction and treatment.