Work

Chronic Kidney Disease, Sarcopenia, and Hormonal-Metabolic Alterations: An Intriguing Association

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Sarcopenia is a common yet underrecognized complication of chronic kidney disease (CKD), often affecting younger patients and progressing more rapidly than age-related muscle loss. It is driven by a combination of metabolic, hormonal, and inflammatory abnormalities associated with declining renal function. SUMMARY: This review outlines the key mechanisms linking CKD to sarcopenia, including metabolic acidosis, uremic toxin accumulation, hormonal dysregulation, insulin resistance, and chronic inflammation. These factors impair muscle protein turnover and promote protein-energy wasting. The review also discusses diagnostic limitations and emerging therapeutic strategies, such as individualized nutrition, resistance training, and gut microbiota modulation. KEY MESSAGES: Sarcopenia in CKD contributes to increased morbidity and mortality. Early identification and personalized, multidisciplinary interventions are essential to preserve muscle health and improve patient outcomes.

Source: Kidney & Blood Pressure Research

DOI: 10.1159/000551499

Authors: Alessandro Domenico Quercia, Beatrice Cavigiolo, Chiara Mele

Institutions: Azienda Sanitaria Ospedaliera S.Croce e Carle Cuneo, Università degli Studi del Piemonte Orientale “Amedeo Avogadro”

Language: English

Topic: Nutrition and Health in Aging

Subfield: Physiology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,780