Skeletal muscle function naturally declines during the human ageing process. Consequently, elderly individuals often experience progressive weakness, tissue fibrosis, and loss of functional strength. Researchers at Kyushu University recently discovered a sulfur-based compound that significantly enhances ageing muscle repair. Specifically, the compound called lipoic acid trisulfide (LASSS) protects key regenerative proteins in skeletal tissue.
How HGF Drives Ageing Muscle Repair
Under normal physiological conditions, hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) initiates muscle fiber restoration. Injury or physical exercise releases HGF into surrounding tissue spaces. Consequently, HGF binds directly to c-Met receptors on satellite stem cells. This binding activates quiescent stem cells, allowing them to multiply and reconstruct damaged fibers.
However, ageing frequently disrupts this critical molecular pathway through oxidative stress. In older adults, reactive nitrogen species cause chemical nitration of HGF at specific amino acid sites. Therefore, nitrated HGF loses its binding affinity for satellite cell receptors. As a result, the body’s natural regenerative potential declines over time.
Mechanism of the LASSS Compound
To solve this biological challenge, scientists investigated sulfur-rich molecules known as trisulfides. Specifically, they tested lipoic acid trisulfide (LASSS) alongside glutathione trisulfide. Early experiments demonstrated that LASSS effectively prevented destructive chemical modifications on HGF.
Furthermore, increasing the molar ratio of LASSS created a modified “Super HGF” structure. This enhanced protein bound to c-Met receptors with double the affinity of untreated native proteins. Moreover, animal models subjected to muscle disuse showed significantly lower nitration levels after receiving LASSS treatment. Thus, LASSS offers a promising therapeutic strategy for sarcopenia and age-related atrophy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is LASSS and how does it aid muscle recovery?
LASSS is a sulfur-based trisulfide antioxidant. Consequently, it prevents harmful chemical modifications on muscle repair proteins and enhances stem cell activation.
Q2: Can LASSS prevent age-related sarcopenia in humans?
Preliminary laboratory and animal studies show strong potential. However, clinical human trials are still required to confirm its safety and efficacy.
References
- Researchers unveil a compound that can boost ageing muscle repair – ETHealthworld
- Kyushu University. Scientists find compound that may help muscles stay strong as we age. Scientific Reports, 2026.
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