As Skeletal Muscle Ages, After Age 30, Which of the Following

Question

As skeletal muscle ages, after age 30, which of the following does NOT occur?
A) decrease in maximal strength
B) decrease in the relative number of slow oxidative fibers
C) replacement of muscle mass by fibrous connective tissue and adipose tissue
D) slowing of muscle reflexes

Accepted Answer

The relative number of slow oxidative fibers does not decrease with aging. Instead, there is a general decline in muscle mass and function, including a decrease in maximal strength, an increase in non-contractile tissue (fibrous connective tissue and adipose tissue), and a slowing of muscle reflexes. Slow oxidative fibers are more resistant to fatigue and are used for endurance activities; their proportion relative to other fiber types does not necessarily decrease with age.