People who eat fewer calories for many years have more of a protein called beclin-1 in their muscles, which helps start the process of cleaning up damaged cell parts.
Scientific Claim
Long-term calorie restriction in humans is associated with higher levels of beclin-1 protein and mRNA in skeletal muscle compared to control groups, indicating enhanced autophagy initiation.
Evidence Quality Assessment
Claim Status
appropriately stated
Study Design Support
Design supports claim
Appropriate Language Strength
association
Can only show association/correlation
Assessment Explanation
The study is observational and only shows association, so 'associated with' is appropriate. The claim correctly states the finding without implying causation.
Source Excerpt
“HSP70, Grp78, beclin-1, and LC3 mRNA and/or protein levels were higher in the skeletal muscle of the CR group compared to controls.”
Evidence from Studies
Supporting Evidence (1)
The study measured beclin-1 levels in skeletal muscle and found higher levels in CR subjects versus controls. This is a direct observation without causal inference.
Long-Term Calorie Restriction Enhances Cellular Quality-Control Processes in Human Skeletal Muscle.