Frontiers in Physiology · May 4, 2026

Taurine and glutamine supplementation in aging: systemic mechanisms, exercise interactions, and modulation of muscular and neurobiological pathways

By Chen Z, Niu Z

The senescence of the neuro-skeletal muscle system is typified by a gradual deterioration in muscle mass, strength, neuromuscular efficacy, and cognitive capabilities, which is further exacerbated by metabolic dysregulation and heightened vulnerability to fatigue. The identification of efficacious strategies aimed at reversing or mitigating these deficits is paramount for the promotion of healthy aging. Taurine, glutamine, and physical exercise emerge as promising modulators of cellular homeostasis, exhibiting synergistic potential to address multiple pathways implicated in age-associated decline. This review amalgamates mechanistic insights into the effects of taurine and glutamine supplementation, in conjunction with exercise regimens, on protein metabolism, mitochondrial functionality, muscle fatigue biomarkers, neuroinflammation, redox equilibrium, and body composition throughout the aging process. We examine the role of taurine in preserving calcium homeostasis, enhancing mitochondrial stability, and mitigating oxidative stress; the function of glutamine in sustaining nitrogen balance, regulating immune responses, and facilitating energy metabolism; and the ability of exercise to stimulate critical signaling cascades and antioxidant networks. The integration of taurine and glutamine supplementation with systematically designed exercise regimens may yield a holistic, multi-faceted strategy for counteracting neuro-skeletal muscle aging and augmenting overall functional capacity in the elderly population.

doi.org/10.3389/fphys.2026.1809107Open accessPubMed 42158500Interventions