Increased signaling of the pro-inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) elicits apoptosis of skeletal muscle cells in various animal models. Within a population-based prospective follow up study of elderly people aged 85 years we show that a high innate production capacity of TNF-α precedes a steeper decline in muscle strength over time.

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doi.org/10.1016/j.mad.2007.07.001, hdl.handle.net/1765/35214
Mechanisms of Ageing and Development
Erasmus MC: University Medical Center Rotterdam

Taekema, D., Westendorp, R., Frölich, M., & Gussekloo, J. (2007). High innate production capacity of tumor necrosis factor-α and decline of handgrip strength in old age. Mechanisms of Ageing and Development, 128(9), 517–521. doi:10.1016/j.mad.2007.07.001