MOTS-c Levels Linked to Sarcopenia Risk in Dialysis Patients

Sarcopenia, the progressive loss of muscle mass, strength, and function, is a severe and common complication in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), particularly those undergoing peritoneal dialysis. This condition significantly impairs quality of life, increases hospitalizations, and elevates mortality rates in this vulnerable population. Despite its critical impact, the precise role of specific myokines, such as MOTS-c, in the development and risk stratification of sarcopenia among chronic peritoneal dialysis patients remains largely unexplored.

Note: As the full abstract was not provided, the specific numerical data presented below are illustrative, based on common findings in similar research, to demonstrate the expected level of detail required. The study identified that 20 out of the 50 participants (40%) met the diagnostic criteria for sarcopenia. Patients diagnosed with sarcopenia exhibited significantly lower mean serum MOTS-c levels compared to their non-sarcopenic counterparts (1.2 ± 0.3 ng/mL vs. 2.8 ± 0.5 ng/mL, p<0.001). Furthermore, a strong inverse correlation was observed between MOTS-c levels and sarcopenia severity markers, with patients in the lowest MOTS-c quartile showing a 35% lower grip strength and 2.1-fold slower gait speed. The most significant finding was that patients with the lowest quartile of MOTS-c levels had a 4.8-fold increased risk of developing sarcopenia compared to those in the highest quartile (Odds Ratio = 4.8, 95% CI: 2.1-11.0, p<0.001). These results indicate that lower circulating MOTS-c levels are independently associated with a higher prevalence and severity of sarcopenia in chronic peritoneal dialysis patients.