Mouse models of accelerated aging in musculoskeletal research for assessing frailty, sarcopenia, and osteoporosis – A review

Musculoskeletal aging encompasses the decline in bone and muscle function, leading to conditions such as frailty, osteoporosis, and sarcopenia. Unraveling the underlying molecular mechanisms and developing effective treatments are crucial for improving the quality of life for those affected. In this context, accelerated aging models offer valuable insights into these conditions by displaying the hallmarks of human aging. Herein, this review focuses on relevant mouse models of musculoskeletal aging with particular emphasis on frailty, osteoporosis, and sarcopenia. Among the discussed models, PolgA mice in particular exhibit hallmarks of musculoskeletal aging, presenting early-onset frailty, as well as reduced bone and muscle mass that closely resemble human musculoskeletal aging. Ultimately, findings from these models hold promise for advancing interventions targeted at age-related musculoskeletal disorders, effectively addressing the challenges posed by musculoskeletal aging and associated conditions in humans.