Consumption of apple peels could provide some relief from muscle tissue breakdown in the elderly, according to a new study from researchers at the University of Iowa. The researchers examined the use of apple peels on mice, specifically looking at how it affects a protein called ATF4.
The protein is largely responsible for the breakdown of muscle tissue and researchers have found that compounds in apple peels can significantly reduce levels of the protein.
"Many of us know from our own experiences that muscle weakness and atrophy are big problems as we become older. These problems have a major impact on our quality of life and health," the researchers explained.
"Based on these results, ursolic acid and tomatidine appear to have a lot of potential as tools for dealing with muscle weakness and atrophy during ageing. By reducing ATF4 activity, ursolic acid and tomatidine allow skeletal muscle to recover from effects of ageing."
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June 12, 2026 17:14 ET Major central bank action was the focus this week in economic news. The European Central Bank became the first major central bank to move in response to the rising inflationary pressures in the backdrop of the conflict in the Middle East. In North America, the U.S. inflation and trade data as well as Canada’s central bank decision gained attention. The Chinese trade data was the main news in Asia.