Physiological activation of hypoxia inducible factor-1 in human skeletal muscle

Activation of macroautophagy and chaperone-mediated autophagy in human skeletal muscle by high-intensity exercise in normoxia and hypoxia and after recovery with or without post-exercise ischemia

Autophagy is essential for the adaptive response to exercise and physiological skeletal muscle functionality. However, the mechanisms leading to the activation of macroautophagy and chaperone-mediated autophagy in human skeletal muscle in response to high-intensity exercise remain elusive. Our findings demonstrate that macroautophagy and chaperone-mediated autophagy are stimulated by high-intensity exercise in normoxia (PIO2: 143 mmHg) and severe acute hypoxia (PIO2: 73 mmHg) in healthy humans. High-intensity exercise induces macroautophagy initiation through AMPKα phosphorylation, which phosphorylates and activates ULK1. ULK1 phosphorylates BECN1 at Ser15, eliciting the dissociation of BECN1-BCL2 crucial for phagophore formation. Besides, high-intensity exercise elevates the LC3B-II:LC3B-I ratio, reduces total SQSTM1/p62 levels, and induces p-Ser349 SQSTM1/p62 phosphorylation, suggesting heightened autophagosome degradation. PHAF1/MYTHO, a novel macroautophagy biomarker, is highly upregulated in response to high-intensity exercise. The latter is accompanied by elevated LAMP2A expression, indicating chaperone-mediated autophagy activation regardless of post-exercise HSPA8/HSC70 downregulation. Despite increased glycolytic metabolism, severe acute hypoxia does not exacerbate the autophagy signaling response. Signaling changes revert within 1 min of recovery with free circulation, while the application of immediate post-exercise ischemia impedes recovery. Our study concludes that macroautophagy and chaperone-mediated autophagy pathways are strongly activated by high-intensity exercise, regardless of PO2, and that oxygenation is necessary to revert these signals to pre-exercise values. PHAF1/MYTHO emerges as a pivotal exercise-responsive autophagy marker positively associated with the LC3B-II:LC3B-I ratio.

Transcriptional landscape of a hypoxia response identifies cell-specific pathways for adaptation

How the HIF-1 (Hypoxia-Inducible) transcription factor drives and coordinates distinct responses to low oxygen across diverse cell types is poorly understood. We present a multi-tissue single-cell gene-expression atlas of the hypoxia response of the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans . This atlas highlights how cell-type-specific HIF-1 responses overlap and diverge among and within neuronal, intestinal, and muscle tissues. Using the atlas to guide functional analyses of candidate muscle-specific HIF-1 effectors, we discovered that HIF-1 activation drives downregulation of the tspo-1 ( TSPO, Translocator Protein) gene in vulval muscle cells to modulate a hypoxia-driven change in locomotion caused by contraction of body-wall muscle cells. We further showed that in human cardiomyocytes HIF-1 activation decreases levels of TSPO and thereby alters intracellular cholesterol transport and the mitochondrial network. We suggest that TSPO-1 is an evolutionarily conserved mediator of HIF-1-dependent modulation of muscle and conclude that our gene-expression atlas can help reveal how HIF-1 drives cell-specific adaptations to hypoxia.

Immune consequences of exercise in hypoxia: A narrative review

Immune outcomes are key mediators of many health benefits of exercise and are determined by exercise type, dose (frequency/duration, intensity), and individual characteristics. Similarly, reduced availability of ambient oxygen (hypoxia) modulates immune functions depending on the hypoxic dose and the individual capacity to respond to hypoxia. How combined exercise and hypoxia (e.g., high-altitude training) sculpts immune responses is not well understood, although such combinations are becoming increasingly popular. Therefore, in this paper, we summarize the impact on immune responses of exercise and of hypoxia, both independently and together, with a focus on specialized cells in the innate and adaptive immune system. We review the regulation of the immune system by tissue oxygen levels and the overlapping and distinct immune responses related to exercise and hypoxia, then we discuss how they may be modulated by nutritional strategies. Mitochondrial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory mechanisms underlie many of the adaptations that can lead to improved cellular metabolism, resilience, and overall immune functions by regulating the survival, differentiation, activation, and migration of immune cells. This review shows that exercise and hypoxia can impair or complement/synergize with each other while regulating immune system functions. Appropriate acclimatization, training, and nutritional strategies can be used to avoid risks and tap into the synergistic potentials of the poorly studied immune consequences of exercising in a hypoxic state.

Acute physiological responses and muscle recovery in females: a randomised controlled trial of muscle damaging exercise in hypoxia

BACKGROUND

Studies have investigated the effects of training under hypoxia (HYP) after several weeks in a male population. However, there is still a lack of knowledge on the acute hypoxic effects on physiology and muscle recovery in a female population.

METHODS

This randomized-controlled trial aimed to investigate the acute effects of muscle damaging exercise, performed in HYP and normoxia (CON), on physiological responses and recovery characteristics in healthy females. Key inclusion criteria were recreationally active female participants between the age of 18 to 35 years without any previous surgeries and injuries, whilst key exclusion criteria were acute pain situations, pregnancy, and medication intake. The females conducted a muscle-damaging protocol, comprising 5 × 20 drop-jumps, in either HYP (FiO2: 12%) or CON (FiO2: 21%). Physiological responses, including capillary oxygenation (SpO2), muscle oxygenation (SmO2), heart rate (HR), core- (Tcore) and skin- (Tskin) temperature were assessed at the end of each exercise set. Recovery characteristics were quantified by taking venous blood samples (serum creatine-kinase [CK], C-reactive protein [CRP] and blood sedimentation rate [BSR]), assessing muscle swelling of the quadriceps femoris muscle, maximum voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) of the knee extensor muscles, countermovement jump (CMJ) performance and muscle soreness ratings (DOMS) at 24-, 48- and 72-hrs post-exercise.

RESULTS

SpO2 (HYP: 76.7 ± 3.8%, CON: 95.5 ± 1.7%, p < 0.001) and SmO2 (HYP: 60.0 ± 9.3, CON: 73.4 ± 5.8%, p = 0.03) values were lower (p < 0.05) in HYP compared to CON at the end of the exercise-protocol. No physiological differences between HYP and CON were observed for HR, Tcore, and Tskin (all p > 0.05). There were also no differences detected for any recovery variable (CK, CRP, BSR, MVIC, CMJ, and DOMS) during the 72-hrs follow-up period between HYP and CON (all p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, our results showed that muscle damaging exercise under HYP leads to reduced capillary and muscle oxygenation levels compared to normoxia with no difference in inflammatory response and muscle recovery during 72 h post-exercise.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

NCT04902924, May 26th 2021.

The Acute, Short-, and Long-Term Effects of Endurance Exercise on Skeletal Muscle Transcriptome Profiles

A better understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms that are involved in skeletal muscle adaptation to exercise is fundamentally important to take full advantage of the enormous benefits that exercise training offers in disease prevention and therapy. The aim of this study was to elucidate the transcriptional signatures that distinguish the endurance-trained and untrained muscles in young adult males (24 ± 3.5 years). We characterized baseline differences as well as acute exercise-induced transcriptome responses in vastus lateralis biopsy specimens of endurance-trained athletes (ET; n = 8; VO2max, 67.2 ± 8.9 mL/min/kg) and sedentary healthy volunteers (SED; n = 8; VO2max, 40.3 ± 7.6 mL/min/kg) using microarray technology. A second cohort of SED volunteers (SED-T; n = 10) followed an 8-week endurance training program to assess expression changes of selected marker genes in the course of skeletal muscle adaptation. We deciphered differential baseline signatures that reflected major differences in the oxidative and metabolic capacity of the endurance-trained and untrained muscles. SED-T individuals in the training group displayed an up-regulation of nodal regulators of oxidative adaptation after 3 weeks of training and a significant shift toward the ET signature after 8 weeks. Transcriptome changes provoked by 1 h of intense cycling exercise only poorly overlapped with the genes that constituted the differential baseline signature of ETs and SEDs. Overall, acute exercise-induced transcriptional responses were connected to pathways of contractile, oxidative, and inflammatory stress and revealed a complex and highly regulated framework of interwoven signaling cascades to cope with exercise-provoked homeostatic challenges. While temporal transcriptional programs that were activated in SEDs and ETs were quite similar, the quantitative divergence in the acute response transcriptomes implicated divergent kinetics of gene induction and repression following an acute bout of exercise. Together, our results provide an extensive examination of the transcriptional framework that underlies skeletal muscle plasticity.

Effects of the order of endurance and high-intensity interval exercise in combined training on mouse skeletal muscle metabolism

Endurance exercise (EE) mainly improves oxidative capacity, whereas high-intensity interval exercise (HIIE) also improves glycolytic capacity. There is growing evidence that suggests that combining EE with HIIE can lead to improved athletic performance and fitness outcomes compared with either form of exercise alone. This study aimed to elucidate whether the order in which EE and HIIE are performed in combined training affects oxidative metabolism and glycolysis in mouse skeletal muscle. Male ICR mice at 7 wk of age were divided into three groups: control (CON), EE-HIIE, and HIIE-EE. The total training period was 3 wk (3 times/week). Mice performed running on a treadmill as endurance exercise and swimming with a weight load of 10% of body weight as high-intensity interval exercise. EE before HIIE (EE-HIIE) improved running performance in the maximal EE capacity test (all-out test) and partly enhanced the expression levels of molecular signals involved in glycolysis compared with HIIE before EE (HIIE-EE). The order of exercise did not, however, impact the expression of proteins related to mitochondrial dynamics, including those involved in the morphological changes of mitochondria through repeated fusion and fission, as well as oxidative energy metabolism. The findings suggest that the order of exercise has no significant impact on the expression of proteins associated with glycolytic and oxidative energy metabolism. Nevertheless, our results indicate that the order of EE-HIIE may enhance running performance.

Environmental and behavioral regulation of HIF-mitochondria crosstalk

Reduced oxygen availability (hypoxia) can lead to cell and organ damage. Therefore, aerobic species depend on efficient mechanisms to counteract detrimental consequences of hypoxia. Hypoxia inducible factors (HIFs) and mitochondria are integral components of the cellular response to hypoxia and coordinate both distinct and highly intertwined adaptations. This leads to reduced dependence on oxygen, improved oxygen supply, maintained energy provision by metabolic remodeling and tapping into alternative pathways and increased resilience to hypoxic injuries. On one hand, many pathologies are associated with hypoxia and hypoxia can drive disease progression, for example in many cancer and neurological diseases. But on the other hand, controlled induction of hypoxia responses via HIFs and mitochondria can elicit profound health benefits and increase resilience. To tackle pathological hypoxia conditions or to apply health-promoting hypoxia exposures efficiently, cellular and systemic responses to hypoxia need to be well understood. Here we first summarize the well-established link between HIFs and mitochondria in orchestrating hypoxia-induced adaptations and then outline major environmental and behavioral modulators of their interaction that remain poorly understood.

Multitissue responses to exercise: a MoTrPAC feasibility study

We assessed the feasibility of the Molecular Transducers of Physical Activity Consortium (MoTrPAC) human adult clinical exercise protocols, while also documenting select cardiovascular, metabolic, and molecular responses to these protocols. After phenotyping and familiarization sessions, 20 subjects (25 ± 2 yr, 12 M, 8 W) completed an endurance exercise bout (n = 8, 40 min cycling at 70% V̇o2max), a resistance exercise bout (n = 6, ∼45 min, 3 sets of ∼10 repetition maximum, 8 exercises), or a resting control period (n = 6, 40 min rest). Blood samples were taken before, during, and after (10 min, 2 h, and 3.5 h) exercise or rest for levels of catecholamines, cortisol, glucagon, insulin, glucose, free fatty acids, and lactate. Heart rate was recorded throughout exercise (or rest). Skeletal muscle (vastus lateralis) and adipose (periumbilical) biopsies were taken before and ∼4 h following exercise or rest for mRNA levels of genes related to energy metabolism, growth, angiogenesis, and circadian processes. Coordination of the timing of procedural components (e.g., local anesthetic delivery, biopsy incisions, tumescent delivery, intravenous line flushes, sample collection and processing, exercise transitions, and team dynamics) was reasonable to orchestrate while considering subject burden and scientific objectives. The cardiovascular and metabolic alterations reflected a dynamic and unique response to endurance and resistance exercise, whereas skeletal muscle was transcriptionally more responsive than adipose 4 h postexercise. In summary, the current report provides the first evidence of protocol execution and feasibility of key components of the MoTrPAC human adult clinical exercise protocols. Scientists should consider designing exercise studies in various populations to interface with the MoTrPAC protocols and DataHub.NEW & NOTEWORTHY This study highlights the feasibility of key aspects of the MoTrPAC adult human clinical protocols. This initial preview of what can be expected from acute exercise trial data from MoTrPAC provides an impetus for scientists to design exercise studies to interlace with the rich phenotypic and -omics data that will populate the MoTrPAC DataHub at the completion of the parent protocol.

Baf155 regulates skeletal muscle metabolism via HIF-1a signaling

During exercise, skeletal muscle is exposed to a low oxygen condition, hypoxia. Under hypoxia, the transcription factor hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) is stabilized and induces expressions of its target genes regulating glycolytic metabolism. Here, using a skeletal muscle-specific gene ablation mouse model, we show that Brg1/Brm-associated factor 155 (Baf155), a core subunit of the switch/sucrose non-fermentable (SWI/SNF) complex, is essential for HIF-1α signaling in skeletal muscle. Muscle-specific ablation of Baf155 increases oxidative metabolism by reducing HIF-1α function, which accompanies the decreased lactate production during exercise. Furthermore, the augmented oxidation leads to high intramuscular adenosine triphosphate (ATP) level and results in the enhancement of endurance exercise capacity. Mechanistically, our chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) analysis reveals that Baf155 modulates DNA-binding activity of HIF-1α to the promoters of its target genes. In addition, for this regulatory function, Baf155 requires a phospho-signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (pSTAT3), which forms a coactivator complex with HIF-1α, to activate HIF-1α signaling. Our findings reveal the crucial role of Baf155 in energy metabolism of skeletal muscle and the interaction between Baf155 and hypoxia signaling.

Moderate exercise-induced dynamics on key sepsis-associated signaling pathways in the liver

BACKGROUND

There is a clear relationship between quantitative measures of fitness (e.g., VO₂ max) and outcomes after surgical procedures. Whether or not fitness is a modifiable risk factor and what underlying biological processes drive these changes are not known. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the moderate exercise training effect on sepsis outcomes (survival) as well as the hepatic biological response. We chose to study the liver because it plays a central role in the regulation of immune defense during systemic infection and receives blood flow directly from the origin of infection (gut) in the cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) model.

METHODS

We randomized 50 male (♂) and female (♀) Sprague-Dawley rats (10 weeks, 340 g) to 3 weeks of treadmill exercise training, performed CLP to induce polymicrobial "sepsis," and monitored survival for five days (Part I). In parallel (Part II), we randomized 60 rats to control/sedentary (G1), exercise (G2), exercise + sham surgery (G3), CLP/sepsis (G4), exercise + CLP [12 h (G5) and 24 h (G6)], euthanized at 12 or 24 h, and explored molecular pathways related to exercise and sepsis survival in hepatic tissue and serum.

RESULTS

Three weeks of exercise training significantly increased rat survival following CLP (polymicrobial sepsis). CLP increased inflammatory markers (e.g., TNF-a, IL-6), which were attenuated by exercise. Sepsis suppressed the SOD and Nrf2 expression, and exercise before sepsis restored SOD and Nrf2 levels near the baseline. CLP led to increased HIF1a expression and oxidative and nitrosative stress, the latter of which were attenuated by exercise. Haptoglobin expression levels were increased in CLP animals, which was significantly amplified in exercise + CLP (24 h) rats.

CONCLUSIONS

Moderate exercise training (3 weeks) increased the survival in rats exposed to CLP, which was associated with less inflammation, less oxidative and nitrosative stress, and activation of antioxidant defense pathways.

Hypoxia with or without Treadmill Exercises Affects Slow-Twitch Muscle Atrophy and Joint Destruction in a Rat Model of Rheumatoid Arthritis

The effects of treadmill running under hypoxic conditions on joints and muscles of collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) rats were investigated. CIA rats were divided into normoxia no-exercise, hypoxia no-exercise (Hypo-no), and hypoxia exercise (Hypo-ex) groups. Changes were examined on days 2 and 44 of hypoxia with or without treadmill exercises. In the early stage of hypoxia, the expression of hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1α increased in the Hypo-no and Hypo-ex groups. The expression of the egl-9 family hypoxia-inducible factor 1 (EGLN1) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the Hypo-ex group also increased. Under sustained hypoxia, the Hypo-no and Hypo-ex groups did not show increased expression of HIF-1α or VEGF, but p70S6K levels were elevated. Histologically, joint destruction was alleviated in the Hypo-no group, the loss of muscle weight in slow-twitch muscles was prevented, and muscle fibrosis was suppressed. In the Hypo-ex group, the preventive effect of a reduction in the slow-twitch muscle cross-sectional area was enhanced. Thus, chronic hypoxia in an animal model of rheumatoid arthritis controlled arthritis and joint destruction and prevented slow-twitch muscle atrophy and fibrosis. The combination of hypoxia with treadmill running further enhanced the preventive effects on slow-twitch muscle atrophy.

Exploring the molecular pathways and therapeutic implications of angiogenesis in neuropathic pain

Recently, much attention has been paid to chronic neuro-inflammatory condition underlying neuropathic pain. It is generally linked with thermal hyperalgesia and tactile allodynia. It results due to injury or infection in the nervous system. The neuropathic pain spectrum covers a variety of pathophysiological states, mostly involved are ischemic injury viral infections associated neuropathies, chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathies, autoimmune disorders, traumatic origin, hereditary neuropathies, inflammatory disorders, and channelopathies. In CNS, angiogenesis is evident in inflammation of neurons and pain in bone cancer. The role of chemokines and cytokines is dualistic; their aggressive secretion produces detrimental effects, leading to neuropathic pain. However, whether the angiogenesis contributes and exists in neuropathic pain remains doubtful. In the present review, we elucidated summary of diverse mechanisms of neuropathic pain associated with angiogenesis. Moreover, an overview of multiple targets that have provided insights on the VEGF signaling, signaling through Tie-1 and Tie-2 receptor, erythropoietin pathway promoting axonal growth are also discussed. Because angiogenesis as a result of these signaling, results in inflammation, we focused on the mechanisms of neuropathic pain. These factors are mainly responsible for the activation of post-traumatic regeneration of the PNS and CNS. Furthermore, we also reviewed synthetic and herbal treatments targeting angiogenesis in neuropathic pain.

The impact of mild hypoxia exposure on myokine secretion in human obesity

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE

Compelling evidence indicates that myokines act in an autocrine, paracrine and endocrine manner to alter metabolic homeostasis. The mechanisms underlying exercise-induced changes in myokine secretion remain to be elucidated. Since exercise acutely decreases oxygen partial pressure (pO₂) in skeletal muscle (SM), the present study was designed to test the hypothesis that (1) hypoxia exposure impacts myokine secretion in primary human myotubes and (2) exposure to mild hypoxia in vivo alters fasting and postprandial plasma myokine concentrations in humans.

METHODS

Differentiated primary human myotubes were exposed to different physiological pO₂ levels for 24 h, and cell culture medium was harvested to determine myokine secretion. Furthermore, we performed a randomized single-blind crossover trial to investigate the impact of mild intermittent hypoxia exposure (MIH: 7-day exposure to 15% O₂, 3x2h/day vs. normoxia: 21% O₂) on in vivo SM pO₂ and plasma myokine concentrations in 12 individuals with overweight and obesity (body-mass index ≥ 28 kg/m²).

RESULTS

Hypoxia exposure (1% O₂) increased secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC, p = 0.043) and follistatin like 1 (FSTL1, p = 0.021), and reduced leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) secretion (p = 0.009) compared to 3% O₂ in primary human myotubes. In addition, 1% O₂ exposure increased interleukin-6 (IL-6, p = 0.004) and SPARC secretion (p = 0.021), whilst reducing fatty acid binding protein 3 (FABP3) secretion (p = 0.021) compared to 21% O₂. MIH exposure in vivo markedly decreased SM pO₂ (≈40%, p = 0.002) but did not alter plasma myokine concentrations.

CONCLUSIONS

Hypoxia exposure altered the secretion of several myokines in primary human myotubes, revealing hypoxia as a novel modulator of myokine secretion. However, both acute and 7-day MIH exposure did not induce alterations in plasma myokine concentrations in individuals with overweight and obesity.

CLINICAL TRIALS IDENTIFIER

This study is registered at the Netherlands Trial Register (NL7120/NTR7325).

Development of a model to investigate the effects of prolonged ischaemia on the muscles of mastication of male Sprague Dawley rats

OBJECTIVE

The aims of this study were to develop a novel rodent model of masticatory muscle ischaemia via unilateral ligation of the external carotid artery (ECA), and to undertake a preliminary investigation to characterize its downstream effects on mechanosensitivity and cellular features of the masseter and temporalis muscles.

DESIGN

The right ECA of 18 male Sprague-Dawley rats was ligated under general anaesthesia. Mechanical detection thresholds (MDTs) at the masseter and temporalis bilaterally were measured immediately before ECA ligation and after euthanasia at 10-, 20-, and 35-days (n = 6 rats/timepoint). Tissue samples from both muscles and sides were harvested for histological analyses and for assessing changes in the expression of markers of hypoxia and muscle degeneration (Hif-1α, VegfA, and Fbxo32) via real time PCR. Data were analyzed using mixed effect models and non-parametric tests. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.

RESULTS

MDTs were higher in the right than left hemiface (p = 0.009) after 20 days. Histological changes indicative of muscle degeneration and fibrosis were observed in the right muscles. Hif-1α, VegfA, and Fbxo32 were more highly expressed in the masseter than temporalis muscles (all p < 0.05). Hif-1α and, VegfA did not change significantly with time in all muscles (all p > 0.05). Fbxo32 expression gradually increased in the right masseter (p = 0.024) and left temporalis (p = 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

ECA ligation in rats induced hyposensitivity in the homolateral hemiface after 20 days accompanied by tissue degenerative changes. Our findings support the use of this model to study pathophysiologic mechanisms of masticatory muscle ischaemia in larger investigations.

An Acute Bout of Exercise Suppresses Appetite via Central Lactate Metabolism

Exercise has been reported to elicit a transient suppression of appetite. Plasma lactate, which is produced by exercising muscle, is believed to have a critical effect on exercise-induced appetite suppression. However, the underlying mechanisms and signaling steps of central lactate metabolism remain unexplored. After central oxamate administration, C57BL/6J male mice performed 10 high-intensity interval running at 90% V_max for 4 minutes each, which separated by 2 minutes at 12 m/min. Food intake and the expression of hypothalamic appetite-regulating neuropeptides including proopiomelanocortin (POMC) and neuropeptide Y (NPY) were investigated following exercise training. Janus kinase 2 (Jak2)-signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling pathway was also determined by Western blot. In addition, hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) was investigated to explore the effect of central lactate metabolism following exercise. We found that central oxamate administration reversed exercise-induced suppression of food intake, and as well as changes in the expression of POMC and NPY. Moreover, acute exercise led to an increase in the phosphorylation of Jak2 and STAT3 in the hypothalamus, while central lactate inhibition significantly blunted this effect. In addition, HIF-1α expression increased obviously after exercise, while it was attenuated by central oxamate administration. Collectively, our data reveal that central lactate metabolism mediates exercise-induced suppression of appetite and changes in neuropeptides, possibly through enhanced Jak2-STAT3 signaling.

Mitochondria and oxygen homeostasis

Molecular oxygen possesses a dual nature due to its highly reactive free radical property: it is capable of oxidizing metabolic substrates to generate cellular energy, but can also serve as a substrate for genotoxic reactive oxygen species generation. As a labile substance upon which aerobic life depends, the mechanisms for handling cellular oxygen have been fine-tuned and orchestrated in evolution. Protection from atmospheric oxygen toxicity as originally posited by the Endosymbiotic Theory of the Mitochondrion is likely to be one basic principle underlying oxygen homeostasis. We briefly review the literature on oxygen homeostasis both in vitro and in vivo with a focus on the role of the mitochondrion where the majority of cellular oxygen is consumed. The insights gleaned from these basic mechanisms are likely to be important for understanding disease pathogenesis and developing strategies for maintaining health.

Non-canonical function of an Hif-1α splice variant contributes to the sustained flight of locusts

The hypoxia inducible factor (Hif) pathway is functionally conserved across metazoans in modulating cellular adaptations to hypoxia. However, the functions of this pathway under aerobic physiological conditions are rarely investigated. Here, we show that Hif-1α2, a locust Hif-1α isoform, does not induce canonical hypoxic responses but functions as a specific regulator of locust flight, which is a completely aerobic physiological process. Two Hif-1α splice variants were identified in locusts, a ubiquitously expressed Hif-1α1 and a muscle-predominantly expressed Hif-1α2. Hif-1α1 that induces typical hypoxic responses upon hypoxia exposure remains inactive during flight. By contrast, the expression of Hif-1α2, which lacks C-terminal transactivation domain, is less sensitive to oxygen tension but induced extensively by flying. Hif-1α2 regulates physiological processes involved in glucose metabolism and antioxidation during flight and sustains flight endurance by maintaining redox homeostasis through upregulating the production of a reactive oxygen species (ROS) quencher, DJ-1. Overall, this study reveals a novel Hif-mediated mechanism underlying prolonged aerobic physiological activity.

Cancer-cell-secreted miR-122 suppresses O-GlcNAcylation to promote skeletal muscle proteolysis

A decline in skeletal muscle mass and low muscular strength are prognostic factors in advanced human cancers. Here we found that breast cancer suppressed O-linked N-acetylglucosamine (O-GlcNAc) protein modification in muscle through extracellular-vesicle-encapsulated miR-122, which targets O-GlcNAc transferase (OGT). Mechanistically, O-GlcNAcylation of ryanodine receptor 1 (RYR1) competed with NEK10-mediated phosphorylation and increased K48-linked ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation; the miR-122-mediated decrease in OGT resulted in increased RYR1 abundance. We further found that muscular protein O-GlcNAcylation was regulated by hypoxia and lactate through HIF1A-dependent OGT promoter activation and was elevated after exercise. Suppressed O-GlcNAcylation in the setting of cancer, through increasing RYR1, led to higher cytosolic Ca2+ and calpain protease activation, which triggered cleavage of desmin filaments and myofibrillar destruction. This was associated with reduced skeletal muscle mass and contractility in tumour-bearing mice. Our findings link O-GlcNAcylation to muscular protein homoeostasis and contractility and reveal a mechanism of cancer-associated muscle dysregulation.

Myoglobin: From physiological role to potential implications in cancer

Myoglobin (MB) belongs to the well-studied globin proteins superfamily. It has been extensively studied for its physiological roles in oxygen storage and transport for about a century now. However, the last two decades shed the light on unexpected aspects for MB research. Myoglobin has been suggested as a scavenger for nitric oxide and reactive oxygen species (ROS). Furthermore, MB was found to be expressed and regulated in different tissues, beyond the muscle lineage, including cancers. Current evidence suggest that MB is directly regulated by hypoxia and might be contributing to the metabolic rewiring in cancer tissues. In this article, we first discuss the MB physiological roles and then focus on the latter potential roles and regulatory networks of MB in cancer.

The Effect of Blood Flow Restriction Exercise on Angiogenesis-Related Factors in Skeletal Muscle Among Healthy Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background

Blood flow restriction (BFR) exercise may be a potential exercise program to promote angiogenesis. This review aims to compare the effects of exercise with and without BFR on angiogenesis-related factors in skeletal muscle among healthy adults.

Methodology

Searches were made in Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed, and EBSCO databases from January 2001 to June 2021. Studies were screened, quality was evaluated, and data were extracted. The review protocol was registered at PROSPERO (PROSPERO registration number: CRD42021261367). Standardized mean differences (SMD) of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR-2), hypoxia inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptorγcoactivator-1α (PGC-1α) and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) were analyzed using Revman 5.4 software with a 95% confidence interval (95% CI).

Results

Ten studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria with a total of 75 participants for BFR group and 77 for CON group. BFR exercise elicits greater expression of VEGF (heterogeneity test, P = 0.09, I2 = 44%; SMD, 0.93 [0.38, 1.48], P &lt; 0.05), VEGFR-2 (heterogeneity test, P = 0.81, I2 = 0%; SMD, 0.64 [0.08, 1.21], P &lt; 0.05), HIF-1α (heterogeneity test, P = 0.67, I2 = 0%; SMD, 0.43 [0.03, 0.82], P &lt; 0.05), PGC-1α (heterogeneity test, P = 0.02, I2 = 54%; SMD, 0.74 [0.21, 1.28], P &lt; 0.05) and eNOS (heterogeneity test, P = 0.88, I2 = 0%; SMD, 0.60 [0.04, 1.17], P &lt; 0.05) mRNA than non-BFR exercise. In the sub-group analysis, resistance exercise with BFR elicits greater expression of VEGF (heterogeneity test, P = 0.36, I2 = 6%; SMD, 1.66 [0.97, 2.35], P &lt; 0.05) and HIF-1α (heterogeneity test, P = 0.56, I2 = 0%; SMD, 0.51 [0.01, 1.02], P &lt; 0.05) mRNA than aerobic exercise with BFR.

Conclusion

Exercise with BFR elicited more angiogenesis-related factors mRNA expression than exercise without BFR, but not VEGF and PGC-1α protein expression. Therefore, BFR training may be a potential training program to improve vascular function.

Systematic Review Registration

[https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/], identifier [CRD42021261367].

Conserved and convergent mechanisms underlying performance-life-history trade-offs

Phenotypic trade-offs are inevitable in nature, but the mechanisms driving them are poorly understood. Movement and oxygen are essential to all animals, and as such, the common ancestor to all living animals passed on mechanisms to acquire oxygen and contract muscle, sometimes at the expense of other activities or expression of traits. Nevertheless, convergent pathways have also evolved to deal with critical trade-offs that are necessary to survive ubiquitous environmental challenges. We discuss how whole-animal performance traits, such as locomotion, are important to fitness, yet costly, resulting in trade-offs with other aspects of the phenotype via specific conserved and convergent mechanistic pathways across all animals. Specifically, we discuss conserved pathways involved in muscle structure and signaling, insulin/insulin-like signaling, sirtuins, mitochondria and hypoxia-inducible factors, as well as convergent pathways involved in energy regulation, development, reproductive investment and energy storage. The details of these mechanisms are only known from a few model systems, and more comparative studies are needed. We make two main recommendations as a framework for future studies of animal form and function. First, studies of performance should consider the broader life-history context of the organism, and vice versa, as performance expression can require a large portion of acquired resources. Second, studies of life histories or mechanistic pathways that measure performance should do so in meaningful and standardized ways. Understanding proximate mechanisms of phenotypic trade-offs will not only better explain the phenotypes of the organisms we study, but also allow predictions about phenotypic variation at the evolutionary scale.

Transcription Factor Movement and Exercise-Induced Mitochondrial Biogenesis in Human Skeletal Muscle: Current Knowledge and Future Perspectives

In response to exercise, the oxidative capacity of mitochondria within skeletal muscle increases through the coordinated expression of mitochondrial proteins in a process termed mitochondrial biogenesis. Controlling the expression of mitochondrial proteins are transcription factors-a group of proteins that regulate messenger RNA transcription from DNA in the nucleus and mitochondria. To fulfil other functions or to limit gene expression, transcription factors are often localised away from DNA to different subcellular compartments and undergo rapid movement or accumulation only when required. Although many transcription factors involved in exercise-induced mitochondrial biogenesis have been identified, numerous conflicting findings and gaps exist within our knowledge of their subcellular movement. This review aims to summarise and provide a critical analysis of the published literature regarding the exercise-induced movement of transcription factors involved in mitochondria biogenesis in skeletal muscle.

Effect of acute swimming exercise at different intensities but equal total load over metabolic and molecular responses in swimming rats

Acute metabolic and molecular response to exercise may vary according to exercise's intensity and duration. However, there is a lack regarding specific tissue alterations after acute exercise with aerobic or anaerobic predominance. The present study investigated the effects of acute exercise performed at different intensities, but with equal total load on molecular and physiological responses in swimming rats. Sixty male rats were divided into a control group and five groups performing an acute bout of swimming exercise at different intensities (80, 90, 100, 110 and 120% of anaerobic threshold [AnT]). The exercise duration of each group was balanced so all groups performed at the same total load. Gene expression (HIF-1α, PGC-1α, MCT1 and MCT4 mRNA), blood biomarkers and tissue glycogen depletion were analyzed after the exercise session. ANOVA One-Way was used to indicate statistical mean differences considering 5% significance level. Blood lactate concentration was the only biomarker sensitive to acute exercise, with a significant increase in rats exercised above AnT intensities (p < 0.000). Glycogen stores of gluteus muscle were significantly reduced in all exercised animals in comparison to control group (p = 0.02). Hepatic tissue presented significant reduction in glycogen in animals exercised above AnT (p = 0.000, as well as reduced HIF-1α mRNA and increased MCT1 mRNA, especially at the highest intensity (p = 0.002). Physiological parameters did not alter amongst groups for most tissues. Our results indicate the hepatic tissue alterations (glycogen stores and gene expressions) in response to different exercise intensities of exercise, even with the total load matched.

Effects of Short-Term Phosphate Loading on Aerobic Capacity under Acute Hypoxia in Cyclists: A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Crossover Study

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of sodium phosphate (SP) supplementation on aerobic capacity in hypoxia. Twenty-four trained male cyclists received SP (50 mg·kg-1 of FFM/day) or placebo for six days in a randomized, crossover study, with a three-week washout period between supplementation phases. Before and after each supplementation phase, the subjects performed an incremental exercise test to exhaustion in hypoxia (FiO2 = 16%). Additionally, the levels of 2,3-diphosphoglycerate (2,3-DPG), hypoxia-inducible factor 1 alpha (HIF-1α), inorganic phosphate (Pi), calcium (Ca), parathyroid hormone (PTH) and acid-base balance were determined. The results showed that phosphate loading significantly increased the Pi level by 9.0%, whereas 2,3-DPG levels, hemoglobin oxygen affinity, buffering capacity and myocardial efficiency remained unchanged. The aerobic capacity in hypoxia was not improved following SP. Additionally, our data revealed high inter-individual variability in response to SP. Therefore, the participants were grouped as Responders and Non-Responders. In the Responders, a significant increase in aerobic performance in the range of 3-5% was observed. In conclusion, SP supplementation is not an ergogenic aid for aerobic capacity in hypoxia. However, in certain individuals, some benefits can be expected, but mainly in athletes with less training-induced central and/or peripheral adaptation.

Diverse Roles of Cellular Senescence in Skeletal Muscle Inflammation, Regeneration, and Therapeutics

Skeletal muscle undergoes vigorous tissue remodeling after injury. However, aging, chronic inflammatory diseases, sarcopenia, and neuromuscular disorders cause muscle loss and degeneration, resulting in muscular dysfunction. Cellular senescence, a state of irreversible cell cycle arrest, acts during normal embryonic development and remodeling after tissue damage; when these processes are complete, the senescent cells are eliminated. However, the accumulation of senescent cells is a hallmark of aging tissues or pathological contexts and may lead to progressive tissue degeneration. The mechanisms responsible for the effects of senescent cells have not been fully elucidated. Here, we review current knowledge about the beneficial and detrimental effects of senescent cells in tissue repair, regeneration, aging, and age-related disease, especially in skeletal muscle. We also discuss how senescence of muscle stem cells and muscle-resident fibro-adipogenic progenitors affects muscle pathologies or regeneration, and consider the possibility that immunosenescence leads to muscle pathogenesis. Finally, we explore senotherapy, the therapeutic targeting of senescence to treat age-related disease, from the standpoint of improving muscle regeneration.

Altitude, Exercise, and Skeletal Muscle Angio-Adaptive Responses to Hypoxia: A Complex Story

Hypoxia, defined as a reduced oxygen availability, can be observed in many tissues in response to various physiological and pathological conditions. As a hallmark of the altitude environment, ambient hypoxia results from a drop in the oxygen pressure in the atmosphere with elevation. A hypoxic stress can also occur at the cellular level when the oxygen supply through the local microcirculation cannot match the cells’ metabolic needs. This has been suggested in contracting skeletal myofibers during physical exercise. Regardless of its origin, ambient or exercise-induced, muscle hypoxia triggers complex angio-adaptive responses in the skeletal muscle tissue. These can result in the expression of a plethora of angio-adaptive molecules, ultimately leading to the growth, stabilization, or regression of muscle capillaries. This remarkable plasticity of the capillary network is referred to as angio-adaptation. It can alter the capillary-to-myofiber interface, which represent an important determinant of skeletal muscle function. These angio-adaptive molecules can also be released in the circulation as myokines to act on distant tissues. This review addresses the respective and combined potency of ambient hypoxia and exercise to generate a cellular hypoxic stress in skeletal muscle. The major skeletal muscle angio-adaptive responses to hypoxia so far described in this context will be discussed, including existing controversies in the field. Finally, this review will highlight the molecular complexity of the skeletal muscle angio-adaptive response to hypoxia and identify current gaps of knowledges in this field of exercise and environmental physiology.

Diverse energy metabolism patterns in females in Neodon fuscus, Lasiopodomys brandtii, and Mus musculus revealed by comparative transcriptomics under hypoxic conditions

The effects of global warming and anthropogenic disturbance force animals to migrate from lower to higher elevations to find suitable new habitats. As such migrations increase hypoxic stress on the animals, it is important to understand how plateau- and plain-dwelling animals respond to low-oxygen environments. We used comparative transcriptomics to explore the response of Neodon fuscus, Lasiopodomys brandtii, and Mus musculus skeletal muscle tissues to hypoxic conditions. Results indicate that these species have adopted different oxygen transport and energy metabolism strategies for dealing with a hypoxic environment. N. fuscus promotes oxygen transport by increasing hemoglobin synthesis and reduces the risk of thrombosis through cooperative regulation of genes, including Fga, Fgb, Alb, and Ttr; genes such as Acs16, Gpat4, and Ndufb7 are involved in regulating lipid synthesis, fatty acid β-oxidation, hemoglobin synthesis, and electron-linked transmission, thereby maintaining a normal energy supply in hypoxic conditions. In contrast, the oxygen-carrying capacity and angiogenesis of red blood cells in L. brandtii are promoted by genes in the CYP and COL families; this species maintains its bodily energy supply by enhancing the pentose phosphate pathway and mitochondrial fatty acid synthesis pathway. However, under hypoxia, M. musculus cannot effectively transport additional oxygen; thus, its cell cycle, proliferation, and migration are somewhat affected. Given its lack of hypoxic tolerance experience, M. musculus also shows significantly reduced oxidative phosphorylation levels under hypoxic conditions. Our results suggest that the glucose capacity of M. musculus skeletal muscle does not provide sufficient energy during hypoxia; thus, we hypothesize that it supplements its bodily energy by synthesizing ketone bodies. For the first time, we describe the energy metabolism pathways of N. fuscus and L. brandtii skeletal muscle tissues under hypoxic conditions. Our findings, therefore, improve our understanding of how vertebrates thrive in high altitude and plain habitats when faced with hypoxic conditions.

The effect of muscle blood flow restriction on hemodynamics, cerebral oxygenation and activation at rest

This study tested the hypothesis that muscle blood flow restriction reduces muscle and cerebral oxygenation, at rest. In 26 healthy males, aged 33±2 yrs, physiological variables were continuously recorded during a 10-min period in two experimental conditions: a) with muscle blood flow restriction through thigh cuffs application inflated at 120 mmHg (With Cuffs, WC) and b) without restriction (No Cuffs, NC). Muscle and cerebral oxygenation were reduced by muscle blood flow restriction as suggested by the increase in both muscle and cerebral deoxygenated hemoglobin (Δ[HHb]; p<0.01) and the decrease of muscle and cerebral oxygenation index (Δ[HbDiff]; p<0.01). Hemodynamic responses were not affected by such muscle blood flow restriction, whereas baroreflex sensitivity was reduced (p=0.009). The perception of leg discomfort was higher (p<0.001) in the WC than in the NC condition. This study suggests that thigh cuffs application inflated at 120 mmHg is an effective method to reduce muscle oxygenation at rest. These changes at the muscular level seem to be sensed by the central nervous system, evoking alterations in cerebral oxygenation and baroreflex sensitivity. Novelty bullets: • Thigh cuffs application inflated at 120 mmHg effectively reduces muscle oxygenation at rest. • Limiting muscle oxygenation appears to reduce cerebral oxygenation, and baroreflex sensitivity, at rest. • Even in healthy subjects, limiting muscle oxygenation, at rest, affects neural integration.

Hypoxia transactivates cholecystokinin gene expression in 3D-engineered muscle

At high altitudes, the hypoxic atmosphere decreases the oxygen partial pressure in the body, inducing several metabolic changes in tissues and cells. Furthermore, it exerts potent anorectic effects, thus causing an energy deficit. Two decades ago, a marked increase in the resting level of plasma cholecystokinin (CCK) was observed in humans at the Mt. Kanchenjunga basecamp, located at 5100 m above the sea level, compared to sea-level control values. Interestingly, acute exercise also raises plasma CCK and exerts potent anorectic effects under normoxic conditions. However, the transcriptional regulations of Cck gene underlying these effects have not yet been established. Here, we employed acute electrical pulse stimulation (EPS) followed by microarray analysis to discover novel myokines in 3D-engineered muscle. Acute EPS affects the contractile function, inducing a decline in the contractile force. Surprisingly, microarray analysis revealed an EPS-induced activation of cholecystokinin receptor (CCKR)-mediated signaling. Furthermore, Cck was constitutively upregulated in 3D-engineered muscle, and its expression increased under hypoxic conditions. Notably, a hypoxia-responsive element was detected in the Cck promoters of mice and humans. Our results suggested that hypoxia transactivated Cck expression in 3D-engineered muscle. Furthermore, the elevation in plasma CCK levels following acute exercise or at high altitude might be partly attributed to myogenic cells.

Metabolic consequences of obesity and type 2 diabetes: Balancing genes and environment for personalized care

The prevalence of type 2 diabetes and obesity has risen dramatically for decades and is expected to rise further, secondary to the growing aging, sedentary population. The strain on global health care is projected to be colossal. This review explores the latest work and emerging ideas related to genetic and environmental factors influencing metabolism. Translational research and clinical applications, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, are highlighted. Looking forward, strategies to personalize all aspects of prevention, management and care are necessary to improve health outcomes and reduce the impact of these metabolic diseases.

Effect of the order of concurrent training combined with resistance and high-intensity interval exercise on mTOR signaling and glycolytic metabolism in mouse skeletal muscle

Athletes train to improve strength and endurance to demonstrate maximum performance during competitions. Training methods vary but most focus on strength, endurance, or both. Concurrent training is a combination of two different modes of training. In this study, we combined resistance exercise (RE) and high-intensity interval exercise (HIIE) to investigate the influence of the order of the concurrent training on signal molecules on hypertrophy and glycolysis in the skeletal muscle. The phosphorylation levels of mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) signals, p70 S6 kinase (p70S6 K), ribosomal protein S6 (S6), and glycogen synthase kinase beta (GSK-3β) were significantly increased in the HIIE first group compared with the control group. The combined training course did not affect the glycogen content and expression levels of proteins concerning glycolytic and metabolic capacity, suggesting that a combination of HIIE and RE on the same day, with HIIE prior to RE, improves hypertrophy response and glycolysis enhancement.

Responses of Angiogenic Regulators to Resistance Exercise Under Systemic Hypoxia

ABSTRACT

Kon, M, Ikeda, T, Homma, T, and Suzuki, Y. Responses of angiogenic regulators to resistance exercise under systemic hypoxia. J Strength Cond Res 35(2): 436-441, 2021-Resistance exercise and hypoxia powerfully affect the secretions of angiogenic regulators. However, the effects of resistance exercise under acute systemic hypoxia on circulating levels of angiogenic regulators are unknown. Therefore, we investigated the effects of resistance exercise under systemic hypoxia on angiogenic regulator responses. Twelve healthy male subjects completed 2 experimental trials: (a) resistance exercise under normoxia (NRE), and (b) resistance exercise under systemic hypoxia (13% oxygen) (HRE) using a hypoxic generator. The subjects performed 2 consecutive resistance exercises (bench press and bilateral leg press), consisting of 5 sets with 10 repetitions at 70% of 1 repetition maximum with a 1-minute rest between sets. Serum vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2, MMP-9, and endostatin concentrations were measured before exercise (and before exposure to hypoxia in the HRE trial) and at 0, 15, and 30 minutes after the resistance exercises. In both trials, serum VEGF, MMP-2, MMP-9, and endostatin concentrations significantly increased after the exercises compared with preexercise values (p < 0.05). At 0 minutes after exercise, the percentage change in VEGF concentration was significantly higher in the HRE trial compared with that in the NRE trial (p < 0.05). However, the exercise-induced changes in MMP-2, MMP-9, and endostatin concentrations did not differ between trials. The present results demonstrate that acute systemic hypoxia induces a greater resistance exercise-induced VEGF response, suggesting that hypoxia plays an important role in increasing the VEGF response to a bout of resistance exercise.

Effect of normobaric hypoxic exercise on blood pressure in old individuals

Purpose

To test the hypothesis that the combination of endurance training and hypoxia leads to greater improvements in resting and exercise blood pressure in old sedentary individuals compared to endurance training only.

Methods

We randomly assigned 29 old overweight participants (age: 62 ± 6 years, body mass index (BMI): 28.5 ± 0.5 kg/m², 52% men) to single blind 8-week bicycle exercise in hypoxia (fraction of inspired oxygen (F_IO₂) = 0.15) or normoxia (F_IO₂ = 0.21). Brachial blood pressure was measured at rest, during maximal incremental exercise testing, and during a 30 min constant work rate test, at baseline and after the training period.

Results

Work rate, heart rate and perceived exertion during training were similar in both groups, with lower oxygen saturation for participants exercising under hypoxia (88.7 ± 1.5 vs. 96.2 ± 1.2%, t(27) = − 13.04, p < 0.001, |g|= 4.85). Office blood pressure and blood pressure during incremental exercise tests did not change significantly in either group after the training program. Systolic blood pressure during the constant work rate test was reduced after training in hypoxia (160 ± 18 vs. 151 ± 14 mmHg, t(13) = 2.44 p < 0.05, |d|= 0.55) but not normoxia (154 ± 22 vs. 150 ± 16 mmHg, t(14) = 0.75, p = 0.46, |d|= 0.18) with no difference between groups over time (F = 0.08, p = 0.77, η² = 0.01).

Conclusion

In old individuals hypoxia in addition to exercise does not have superior effects on office or exercise blood pressure compared to training in normoxia.

Trial registration number

ClinicalTrials.gov No. NCT02196623 (registered 22 July 2014).

The Role of Cullin-RING Ligases in Striated Muscle Development, Function, and Disease

The well-orchestrated turnover of proteins in cross-striated muscles is one of the fundamental processes required for muscle cell function and survival. Dysfunction of the intricate protein degradation machinery is often associated with development of cardiac and skeletal muscle myopathies. Most muscle proteins are degraded by the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS). The UPS involves a number of enzymes, including E3-ligases, which tightly control which protein substrates are marked for degradation by the proteasome. Recent data reveal that E3-ligases of the cullin family play more diverse and crucial roles in cross striated muscles than previously anticipated. This review highlights some of the findings on the multifaceted functions of cullin-RING E3-ligases, their substrate adapters, muscle protein substrates, and regulatory proteins, such as the Cop9 signalosome, for the development of cross striated muscles, and their roles in the etiology of myopathies.

Hormetic modulation of angiogenic factors by exercise-induced mechanical and metabolic stress in human skeletal muscle

This study used an integrative experimental model in humans to investigate whether muscle angiogenic factors are differentially modulated by exercise stimuli eliciting different degrees of mechanical and metabolic stress. In a randomized crossover design, 12 men performed two low-volume high-intensity exercise regimens, including short sprint intervals (SSI) or long sprint intervals (LSI) inducing pronounced mechanical/metabolic stress, and a high-volume moderate-intensity continuous exercise protocol (MIC) inducing mild but prolonged mechanical/metabolic stress. Gene and protein expression of angiogenic factors was determined in vastus lateralis muscle samples obtained before and after exercise. Exercise upregulated muscle VEGF mRNA to a greater extent in LSI and MIC compared with SSI. Analysis of angiogenic factors sensitive to shear stress revealed more marked exercise-induced VEGF receptor 2 (VEGF-R2) mRNA responses in MIC than SSI, as well as greater platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule (PECAM-1) and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) mRNA responses in LSI than SSI. No apparent exercise-induced phosphorylation of shear stress-sensory proteins VEGF-R2^Tyr1175, PECAM-1^Tyr713, and eNOS^Ser1177 was observed despite robust elevations in femoral artery shear stress. Exercise evoked greater mRNA responses of the mechanical stretch sensor matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP9) in SSI than MIC. Exercise-induced mRNA responses of the metabolic stress sensor hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) were more profound in LSI than SSI. These results suggest that low-volume high-intensity exercise transcriptionally activates angiogenic factors in a mechanical/metabolic stress-dependent manner. Furthermore, the angiogenic potency of low-volume high-intensity exercise appears similar to that of high-volume moderate-intensity exercise, but only on condition of eliciting severe mechanical/metabolic stress. We conclude that the angiogenic stimulus produced by exercise depends on both magnitude and protraction of myocellular homeostatic perturbations.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Skeletal muscle capillary growth is orchestrated by angiogenic factors sensitive to mechanical and metabolic signals. In this study, we employed an integrative exercise model to synergistically target, yet to different extents and for different durations, the mechanical and metabolic components of muscle activity that promote angiogenesis. Our results suggest that the magnitude of the myocellular perturbations incurred during exercise determines the amplitude of the angiogenic molecular signals, implying hormetic modulation of skeletal muscle angiogenesis by exercise-induced mechanical and metabolic stress.

Fast repetitive stretch suppresses denervation-induced muscle fibrosis

BACKGROUND

We aimed to examine the influence of different speeds of stretching on denervation-induced skeletal muscle fibrosis.

METHODS

Stretching was passively applied to rat plantaris muscle denervated by sciatic nerve excision in three different cycles of 0.5, 3, or 12 cycles/min, for 20 min/d for 2 weeks.

RESULTS

Gene analysis results showed greater expression of fibrosis-related factors with fast stretching compared with non-stretched muscle. Laser Doppler blood flow analysis indicated reduced intramuscular blood flow during stretching. Histological analysis demonstrated fibrotic area decreases in 12 cycles/min stretched muscle compared with non-stretched muscle.

CONCLUSIONS

Slower stretching induced greater mRNA expression of collagen and fibroblasts and greater decrement of blood flow. Histologically, faster stretching suppressed fibrosis. These results suggest that fast repetitive stretching of denervated muscle might suppress processes of muscle fibrosis.

Ouabain Suppresses IL-6/STAT3 Signaling and Promotes Cytokine Secretion in Cultured Skeletal Muscle Cells

The cardiotonic steroids (CTS), such as ouabain and marinobufagenin, are thought to be adrenocortical hormones secreted during exercise and the stress response. The catalytic α-subunit of Na,K-ATPase (NKA) is a CTS receptor, whose largest pool is located in skeletal muscles, indicating that muscles are a major target for CTS. Skeletal muscles contribute to adaptations to exercise by secreting interleukin-6 (IL-6) and plethora of other cytokines, which exert paracrine and endocrine effects in muscles and non-muscle tissues. Here, we determined whether ouabain, a prototypical CTS, modulates IL-6 signaling and secretion in the cultured human skeletal muscle cells. Ouabain (2.5–50 nM) suppressed the abundance of STAT3, a key transcription factor downstream of the IL-6 receptor, as well as its basal and IL-6-stimulated phosphorylation. Conversely, ouabain (50 nM) increased the phosphorylation of ERK1/2, Akt, p70S6K, and S6 ribosomal protein, indicating activation of the ERK1/2 and the Akt-mTOR pathways. Proteasome inhibitor MG-132 blocked the ouabain-induced suppression of the total STAT3, but did not prevent the dephosphorylation of STAT3. Ouabain (50 nM) suppressed hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α), a modulator of STAT3 signaling, but gene silencing of HIF-1α and/or its partner protein HIF-1β did not mimic effects of ouabain on the phosphorylation of STAT3. Ouabain (50 nM) failed to suppress the phosphorylation of STAT3 and HIF-1α in rat L6 skeletal muscle cells, which express the ouabain-resistant α1-subunit of NKA. We also found that ouabain (100 nM) promoted the secretion of IL-6, IL-8, GM-CSF, and TNF-α from the skeletal muscle cells of healthy subjects, and the secretion of GM-CSF from cells of subjects with the type 2 diabetes. Marinobufagenin (10 nM), another important CTS, did not alter the secretion of these cytokines. In conclusion, our study shows that ouabain suppresses the IL-6 signaling via STAT3, but promotes the secretion of IL-6 and other cytokines, which might represent a negative feedback in the IL-6/STAT3 pathway. Collectively, our results implicate a role for CTS and NKA in regulation of the IL-6 signaling and secretion in skeletal muscle.

HIF-1α-induced up-regulation of microRNA-126 contributes to the effectiveness of exercise training on myocardial angiogenesis in myocardial infarction rats

Exercise training (ET) is a non‐drug natural rehabilitation approach for myocardial infarction (MI). Among the numerous beneficial effects of ET, myocardial angiogenesis is indispensable. In the present study, we investigated the role and mechanism of HIF‐1α and miR‐126 in ET‐induced MI myocardial angiogenesis which may provide new insights for MI treatment. Rat model of post‐MI and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were employed for our research. Histomorphology, immunohistochemistry, quantitative real‐time PCR, Western blotting and small‐interfering RNA (siRNA) transfection were applied to evaluate the morphological, functional and molecular mechanisms. In vivo results showed that 4‐week ET could significantly increase the expression of HIF‐1α and miR‐126 and reduce the expression of PIK3R2 and SPRED1, while 2ME2 (HIF‐1α inhibitor) partially attenuated the effect of ET treatment. In vitro results showed that HIF‐1α could trigger expression of miR‐126 in HUVECs in both normoxia and hypoxia, and miR‐126 may be involved in the tube formation of HUVECs under hypoxia through the PI3K/AKT/eNOS and MAPK signalling pathway. In conclusion, we revealed that HIF‐1α, whose expression experiences up‐regulation during ET, could function as an upstream regulator to miR‐126, resulting in angiogenesis promotion through the PI3K/AKT/eNOS and MAPK signalling pathway and subsequent improvement of the MI heart function.

Comprehensive Analysis of mRNA and lncRNA Transcriptomes Reveals the Differentially Hypoxic Response of Preadipocytes During Adipogenesis

Local hypoxia has recently been reported to occur in the white adipose tissue (WAT) microenvironment during obesity. Adipocytes have a unique life cycle that reflects the different stages of adipogenesis in the WAT niche. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play an important role in the cellular response to hypoxia. However, the differentially hypoxic responses of preadipocytes during adipogenesis and the potential role of lncRNAs in this process remain to be elucidated. Here, we evaluated the differentially hypoxic responses of primary hamster preadipocytes during adipogenesis and analyzed mRNA and lncRNA expression in same Ribo-Zero RNA-seq libraries. Hypoxia induced HIF-1α protein during adipogenesis and caused divergent changes of cell phenotypes. A total of 10,318 mRNAs were identified to be expressed in twenty libraries (five timepoints), and 3,198 differentially expressed mRNAs (DE mRNAs) were detected at five timepoints (hypoxia vs. normoxia). Functional enrichment analysis revealed the shared and specific hypoxia response pathways in the different stages of adipogenesis. Hypoxia differentially modulated the expression profile of adipose-associated genes, including adipokines, lipogenesis, lipolysis, hyperplasia, hypertrophy, inflammatory, and extracellular matrix. We also identified 4,296 lncRNAs that were expressed substantially and detected 1,431 DE lncRNAs at five timepoints. Two, 3, 5, 13, and 50 DE mRNAs at D0, D1, D3, D7, and D11, respectively, were highly correlated and locus-nearby DE lncRNAs and mainly involved in the cell cycle, vesicle-mediated transport, and mitochondrion organization. We identified 28 one-to-one lncRNA-mRNA pairs that might be closely related to adipocyte functions, such as ENSCGRT00015041780-Hilpda, TU2105-Cdsn, and TU17588-Ltbp3. These lncRNAs may represent the crucial regulation axis in the cellular response to hypoxia during adipogenesis. This study dissected the effects of hypoxia in the cell during adipogenesis, uncovered novel regulators potentially associated with WAT function, and may provide a new viewpoint for interpretation and treatment of obesity.

Blood Flow Restriction at High Resistance Loads Increases the Rate of Muscular Fatigue, but Does Not Increase Plasma Markers of Myotrauma or Inflammation

Winchester, LJ, Morris, CE, Badinger, J, Wiczynski, TL, and VanWye, WR. Blood flow restriction at high resistance loads increases the rate of muscular fatigue, but does not increase plasma markers of myotrauma or inflammation. J Strength Cond Res 34(9): 2419-2426, 2020-High-load resistance training and blood flow restriction (BFR) training at low loads both promote protein synthesis and growth through different cell signaling mechanisms. Therefore, co-activation of these pathways could result in a synergistic effect for additional growth enhancement. The purpose of this study was to evaluate how BFR effects performance and physiological responses after an acute bout of high-load barbell squat training. Twelve resistance-trained, college-aged men and women performed 5 sets of barbell squats at 75% of 1 repetition maximum until failure under traditional (TRAD; control) or intermittent BFR conditions. Perceived limb pain and number of repetitions performed were recorded after each set. Blood samples were collected at baseline and 1-hour postexercise after each trial for analysis of myoglobin and interleukin-6 (IL-6). An alpha level of p < 0.05 was used to determine significance. Blood flow restriction trial performance significantly declined at set 3 and was lower than performance during control, whereas control performance did not decrease until set 5. Perceived limb pain was statistically increased with BFR use for the whole trial and was significantly higher with BFR during set 3 than observed during TRAD. Plasma myoglobin and IL-6 were significantly increased after both trials when compared with baseline, but were not significantly different between trials. Intermittent BFR use during high-load barbell squats increases the rate of muscular fatigue and perceived limb pain, but does not increase muscular damage or inflammatory response. Data obtained from this study can be used by fitness professionals as a means of potentially enhancing the rate of muscular hypertrophy.

The Molecular Adaptive Responses of Skeletal Muscle to High-Intensity Exercise/Training and Hypoxia

High-intensity exercise/training, especially interval exercise/training, has gained popularity in recent years. Hypoxic training was introduced to elite athletes half a century ago and has recently been adopted by the general public. In the current review, we have summarised the molecular adaptive responses of skeletal muscle to high-intensity exercise/training, focusing on mitochondrial biogenesis, angiogenesis, and muscle fibre composition. The literature suggests that (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha) PGC-1α, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and hypoxia-inducible factor 1-alpha (HIF1-α) might be the main mediators of skeletal muscle adaptations to high-intensity exercises in hypoxia. Exercise is known to be anti-inflammatory, while the effects of hypoxia on inflammatory signalling are more complex. The anti-inflammatory effects of a single session of exercise might result from the release of anti-inflammatory myokines and other cytokines, as well as the downregulation of Toll-like receptor signalling, while training-induced anti-inflammatory effects may be due to reductions in abdominal and visceral fat (which are main sources of pro-inflammatory cytokines). Hypoxia can lead to inflammation, and inflammation can result in tissue hypoxia. However, the hypoxic factor HIF1-α is essential for preventing excessive inflammation. Disease-induced hypoxia is related to an upregulation of inflammatory signalling, but the effects of exercise-induced hypoxia on inflammation are less conclusive. The effects of high-intensity exercise under hypoxia on skeletal muscle molecular adaptations and inflammatory signalling have not been fully explored and are worth investigating in future studies. Understanding these effects will lead to a more comprehensive scientific basis for maximising the benefits of high-intensity exercise.

The Many Facets of Hypoxia in Plants

Plants are aerobic organisms that require oxygen for their respiration. Hypoxia arises due to the insufficient availability of oxygen, and is sensed by plants, which adapt their growth and metabolism accordingly. Plant hypoxia can occur as a result of excessive rain and soil waterlogging, thus constraining plant growth. Increasing research on hypoxia has led to the discovery of the mechanisms that enable rice to be productive even when partly submerged. The identification of Ethylene Response Factors (ERFs) as the transcription factors that enable rice to survive submergence has paved the way to the discovery of oxygen sensing in plants. This, in turn has extended the study of hypoxia to plant development and plant–microbe interaction. In this review, we highlight the many facets of plant hypoxia, encompassing stress physiology, developmental biology and plant pathology.

Metabolic Implications of Circadian-HIF Crosstalk

Research over the past few decades has shed light on the mechanisms underlying the link between circadian disruption and the development of metabolic diseases such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cancer. However, how the clock network interacts with tissue-specificnutrient-sensing pathways during conditions of nutrient stress or pathological states remains incompletely understood. Recent work has demonstrated that the circadian clock can 'reprogram' the transcriptome to control distinct sets of genes during altered nutrient conditions, such as high fat diet, aging, and exercise. In this review, I discuss connections between circadian clock transcription factors and the oxygen- and nutrient-responsivehypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) pathway. I highlight recently uncovered mechanistic insights underlying these pathway interactions and address potential implications for the role of circadian disruption in metabolic diseases.

HIF-hypoxia signaling in skeletal muscle physiology and fibrosis

Hypoxia refers to the decrease in oxygen tension in the tissues, and the central effector of the hypoxic response is the transcription factor Hypoxia-Inducible Factor α (HIF1-α). Transient hypoxia in acute events, such as exercising or regeneration after damage, play an important role in skeletal muscle physiology and homeostasis. However, sustained activation of hypoxic signaling is a feature of skeletal muscle injury and disease, which can be a consequence of chronic damage but can also increase the severity of the pathology and worsen its outcome. Here, we review evidence that supports the idea that hypoxia and HIF-1α can contribute to the establishment of fibrosis in skeletal muscle through its crosstalk with other profibrotic factors, such as Transforming growth factor β (TGF-β), the induction of profibrotic cytokines expression, as is the case of Connective Tissue Growth Factor (CTGF/CCN2), or being the target of the Renin-angiotensin system (RAS).

Mechanistic and methodological perspectives on the impact of intense interval training on post-exercise metabolism

The post-exercise recovery period is associated with an elevated metabolism known as excess post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC). The relationship between exercise duration and EPOC magnitude is thought to be linear whereas the relationship between EPOC magnitude and exercise intensity is thought to be exponential. Accordingly, near-maximal and supramaximal protocols such as high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and sprint interval training (SIT) protocols have been hypothesized to produce greater EPOC magnitudes than submaximal moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT). This review updates previous reviews by focusing on the impact of HIIT and SIT on EPOC. Research to date suggests small differences in EPOC post-HIIT compared to MICT in the immediate (<1 hour) recovery period, but greater EPOC values post-HIIT when examined over 24 hours. Conversely, differences in EPOC post-SIT are more pronounced, as SIT tends to produce a larger EPOC vs MICT at all time points. We discuss potential mechanisms that may drive the EPOC response to interval training (eg, glycogen resynthesis, mitochondrial uncoupling, and protein turnover among others) and also consider the role of EPOC as one of the potential contributors to fat loss following HIIT/SIT interventions. Lastly, we highlight a number of methodological shortcomings related to the measurement of EPOC following HIIT and SIT.

Hypoxia and exercise interactions on skeletal muscle insulin sensitivity in obese subjects with metabolic syndrome: results of a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Physical activity improves insulin sensitivity in obesity. Hypoxia training is claimed to augment this effect. We tested the hypothesis that normobaric hypoxia training would improve insulin sensitivity in obese patients with metabolic syndrome.

METHODS

In a randomized controlled trial, 23 obese men with metabolic syndrome who were not informed of the FiO₂ conditions underwent a 6-week physical exercise intervention under ambient (n = 11; FiO₂ 21%) conditions or hypoxia (n = 12; FiO₂ 15%) using a normobaric hypoxic chamber. Three 60-min sessions of interval training were performed each week at 60% of individual V̇O_2max. Assessment of myocellular insulin sensitivity by euglycemic hyperinsulinemic clamp was performed in 21 of these subjects before and after 6 weeks of training. Comprehensive phenotyping also included biopsies of subcutaneous adipose tissues.

RESULTS

The intermittent moderate physical exercise protocol did not substantially change the myocellular insulin sensitivity within 6 weeks under normoxic conditions (ISI_Clamp: 0.035 (IQR 0.016-0.075) vs. 0.037 (IQR 0.026-0.056) mg* kg^-1 *min^-1/(mU* l^-1); p = 0.767). In contrast, ISI_Clamp improved during hypoxia training (0.028 (IQR 0.018-0.035) vs. 0.038 (IQR 0.024-0.060) mg * kg^-1 *min^-1/(mU *l^-1); p < 0.05). Between group comparison of ISI_Clamp change revealed a small difference between groups (Cohen's d = 0.26). Within the hypoxic group, improvement of ISI_Clamp during training was associated with individual increase of circulating vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) levels (r = 0.678, p = 0.015), even if mean VEGF levels were not modified by any training condition. Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) system components were not associated with increased ISI_Clamp during hypoxic training.

CONCLUSIONS

Physical training under hypoxic conditions could partially augment the favorable effects of exercise alone on myocellular insulin sensitivity in obese men with metabolic syndrome. Concomitant changes in VEGF might represent an underlying pathophysiological mechanism.

A novel gravity-induced blood flow restriction model augments ACC phosphorylation and PGC-1α mRNA in human skeletal muscle following aerobic exercise: a randomized crossover study

This study tested the hypothesis that a novel, gravity-induced blood flow restricted (BFR) aerobic exercise (AE) model will result in greater activation of the AMPK-PGC-1α pathway compared with work rate-matched non-BFR. Thirteen healthy males (age: 22.4 ± 3.0 years; peak oxygen uptake: 42.4 ± 7.3 mL/(kg·min)) completed two 30-min work rate-matched bouts of cycling performed with their legs below (CTL) and above their heart (BFR) at ∼2 weeks apart. Muscle biopsies were taken before, immediately, and 3 h after exercise. Blood was drawn before and immediately after exercise. Our novel gravity-induced BFR model led to less muscle oxygenation during BFR compared with CTL (O₂Hb: p = 0.01; HHb: p < 0.01) and no difference in muscle activation (p = 0.53). Plasma epinephrine increased following both BFR and CTL (p < 0.01); however, only norepinephrine increased more following BFR (p < 0.01). PGC-1α messenger RNA (mRNA) increased more following BFR (∼6-fold) compared with CTL (∼4-fold; p = 0.036). VEGFA mRNA increased (p < 0.01) similarly following BFR and CTL (p = 0.21), and HIF-1α mRNA did not increase following either condition (p = 0.21). Phosphorylated acetyl-coenzyme A carboxylase (ACC) increased more following BFR (p < 0.035) whereas p-PKA substrates, p-p38 MAPK, and acetyl-p53 increased (p < 0.05) similarly following both conditions (p > 0.05). In conclusion, gravity-induced BFR is a viable BFR model that demonstrated an important role of AMPK signalling on augmenting PGC-1α mRNA. Novelty Gravity-induced BFR AE reduced muscle oxygenation without impacting muscle activation, advancing gravity-induced BFR as a simple, inexpensive BFR model. Gravity-induced BFR increased PGC-1α mRNA and ACC phosphorylation more than work rate-matched non-BFR AE. This is the first BFR AE study to concurrently measure blood catecholamines, muscle activation, and muscle oxygenation.

Influences of Hypoxia Exercise on Whole-Body Insulin Sensitivity and Oxidative Metabolism in Older Individuals

CONTEXT

Aging is a primary risk factor for most chronic diseases, including type 2 diabetes. Both exercise and hypoxia regulate pathways that ameliorate age-associated metabolic muscle dysfunction.

OBJECTIVE

We hypothesized that the combination of hypoxia and exercise would be more effective in improving glucose metabolism than normoxia exercise.

DESIGN AND PARTICIPANTS

We randomized 29 older sedentary individuals (62 ± 6 years; 14 women, 15 men) to bicycle exercise under normobaric hypoxia (fraction of inspired oxygen = 15%) or normoxia (fraction of inspired oxygen = 21%).

INTERVENTION

Participants trained thrice weekly for 30 to 40 minutes over 8 weeks at a heart rate corresponding to 60% to 70% of peak oxygen update.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Insulin sensitivity measured by hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic glucose clamp and muscle protein expression before and after hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic glucose clamp.

RESULTS

Heart rate and perceived exertion during training were similar between groups, with lower oxygen saturation when exercising under hypoxia (88.7 ± 1.5 vs 96.2 ± 1.2%, P < 0.01). Glucose infusion rate after 8 weeks increased in both the hypoxia (5.7 ± 1.1 to 6.7 ± 1.3 mg/min/kg; P < 0.01) and the normoxia group (6.2 ± 2.1 to 6.8 ± 2.1 mg/min/kg; P = 0.04), with a mean difference between groups of -0.44 mg/min/kg; 95% CI, -1.22 to 0.34; (P = 0.25). Markers of mitochondrial content and oxidative capacity in skeletal muscle were similar after training in both groups. Changes in Akt phosphorylation and glucose transporter 4 under fasting and insulin-stimulated conditions were not different between groups over time.

CONCLUSIONS

Eight weeks of hypoxia endurance training led to similar changes in insulin sensitivity and markers of oxidative metabolism compared with normoxia training. Normobaric hypoxia exercise did not enhance metabolic effects in sedentary older women and men beyond exercise alone.