Jaeumganghwa-Tang, a traditional herbal formula, improves muscle function and attenuates muscle loss in aged mice

[PURPOSE]: Jaeumganghwa-Tang (JGT), a traditional herbal formula composed of 12 medicinal herbs, is used for the treatment of age-related diseases. In the present study, we investigated the effects of JGT on muscle mass and function in aged mice. [METHODS]: Young (5-month-old) and old (19-month-old) male C57BL/6 mice were divided into two groups each; one group received JGT (75 mg/d) and the other group received the vehicle for 6 weeks. At the end of the experimental period, muscle strength was examined using the wire hang test, and the tibialis anterior and gastrocnemius muscles were weighed. Muscle samples were further used for histological analysis to assess muscle damage, and the expression of transforming growth factor-beta was investigated via western blotting and immunohistochemistry. [RESULTS]: Our results showed that treatment of old mice with JGT improved muscle strength, increased skeletal muscle mass, alleviated muscle damage, and suppressed intramuscular expression of transforming growth factor-beta. [CONCLUSION]: In conclusion, JGT has beneficial effects on age-related loss of muscle mass and function. Thus, it might serve as a potential therapeutic agent for sarcopenia.