STIM1 Reduction Prevents Tubular Aggregate Formation and Compromises Muscle Performance in Ageing Mice

Taken together, STIM1 depletion by 50% had no discernible effect on muscle function in young adult male mice, but compromised muscle performance and resistance to fatigue at later life stages. These findings highlight a critical role of STIM1 and Ca²⁺ balance in the maintenance of muscle physiology, fibre type composition and mitochondrial bioenergetics. The absence of tubular aggregates in Stim1^+/- mice indicates that tubular aggregates possibly play a protective role and may contribute to the prevention of age-related muscle alterations.