01/29/2026
Muscle stem cells lose their regenerative capacities with age, and Kang et al. have demonstrated a role of NDRG1 (N-myc downregulated gene 1), a tumor suppressor gene, in this process. Expression of NDRG1 was increased in muscle cells from old mice, and genetic depletion of the gene enhanced muscle regeneration (see the Perspective by von Maltzahn). However, there was a trade-off, and loss of NDRG1 wasn’t wholly beneficial. Cell survival and regeneration were reduced after multiple injuries. Thus, the characteristics of aged muscle cells may reflect not so much a general decline in function as selection of those cells with high NDRG1 expression. This trade-off may allow for resilience and survival for aged muscles but with delayed activation and decreased regenerative capacity. —L. Bryan Ray