Hong Kong scientists at the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) may have found a breakthrough solution for age-related muscle loss.

Researchers tested the HIV drug Maraviroc on 18-month-old mice suffering from sarcopenia, a condition that causes gradual loss of muscle mass and strength in older adults. After three months of high-dose treatment, the mice showed significant improvements in muscle mass, grip strength, and running endurance, signaling potential for human therapy.

Dr. Michael Ong Tim-yun, clinical assistant professor at CUHK, highlighted that 1 in 7 people aged 65+ in Hong Kong suffers from sarcopenia, with numbers rising to 50% for those over 80.

He noted that the condition is often underdiagnosed because many older adults are unaware of their symptoms. Currently, treatment is limited to exercise and protein supplementation, with no approved drugs available.

CUHK researchers hope to begin clinical trials in humans next year, potentially paving the way for the first pharmaceutical option to combat age-related muscle loss.