A framework of biomarkers for skeletal muscle aging: a consensus statement by the Aging Biomarker Consortium

The skeletal muscle is an important organ for movement and metabolism in human body, and its physiological aging underlies the occurrence of muscle atrophy and sarcopenia. China has the largest aging population in the world and is facing a grand challenge with how to prevent and treat skeletal muscle aging-related diseases. To address this difficult problem, the Aging Biomarker Consortium (ABC) of China has reached an expert consensus on biomarkers of skeletal muscle aging by synthesizing literatures and insights from scientists and clinicians. This consensus attempts to provide a comprehensive assessment of biomarkers associated with skeletal muscle aging, and proposes a systematic framework to classify them into three dimensions: functional, structural, and humoral. Within each dimension, the experts recommend clinically relevant biomarkers for skeletal muscle aging. This consensus aims to lay the foundation for future research on skeletal muscle aging, facilitating precise prediction, diagnosis, and treatment of skeletal muscle aging and sarcopenia. It is anticipated to make significant contributions to healthy aging of skeletal muscle in the elderly population in China and around the world as well.