Role of Microtubule Network in the Passive Anisotropic Viscoelasticity of Healthy Right Ventricle

Cardiomyocytes are viscoelastic and key determinants of right ventricle (RV) mechanics. Intracellularly, microtubules are found to impact the viscoelasticity of isolated cardiomyocytes or trabeculae; whether they contribute to the tissue-level viscoelasticity is unknown. Our goal was to reveal the role of the microtubule network in the passive anisotropic viscoelasticity of the healthy RV. Equibiaxial stress relaxation tests were conducted in healthy RV free wall (RVFW) under early (6%) and end (15%) diastolic strain levels, and at sub- and physiological stretch rates. The viscoelasticity was assessed at baseline and after the removal of microtubule network. Furthermore, a quasi-linear viscoelastic (QLV) model was applied to delineate the contribution of microtubules to the relaxation behavior of RVFW. After removing the microtubule network, RVFW elasticity and viscosity were reduced at the early diastolic strain level and in both directions. The reduction in elasticity was stronger in the longitudinal direction, whereas the degree of changes in viscosity were equivalent between directions. There was insignificant change in RVFW viscoelasticity at late diastolic strain level. Finally, the modeling showed that the tissue's relaxation strength was reduced by the removal of the microtubule network, but the change was present only at a later time scale. These new findings suggest a critical role of cytoskeleton filaments in RVFW passive mechanics in physiological conditions.

Association analysis of transcriptome and quasi-targeted metabolomics reveals the regulation mechanism underlying broiler muscle tissue development at different levels of dietary guanidinoacetic acid

The development and characteristics of muscle fibers in broilers are critical determinants that influence their growth performance, as well as serve as essential prerequisites for the production of high-quality chicken meat. Guanidinoacetic acid (GAA) is a crucial endogenous substance in animal creatine synthesis, and its utilization as a feed additive has been demonstrated the capabilities to enhance animal performance, optimize muscle yield, and augment carcass quality. The objective of this study was to investigate the regulation and molecular mechanism underlying muscle development in broilers at different levels of GAA via multiple omics analysis. The 90 Cobb broilers, aged 1 day, were randomly allocated into three treatments consisting of five replicates of six chickens each. The control group was provided with a basal diet, while the Normal GAA and High GAA groups received a basal diet supplemented with 1.2 g/kg and 3.6 g/kg of GAA, respectively. After a feeding period of 42 days, the pectoralis muscles were collected for histomorphological observation, transcriptome and metabolomic analysis. The results demonstrated that the addition of 1.2 g/kg GAA in the diet led to an augmentation in muscle fiber diameter and up-regulation of IGF1, IHH, ASB2, and ANKRD2 gene expression. However, a high dose of 3.6 g/kg GAA in the diet potentially reversed the beneficial effects on chicken breast development by excessively activating the TGF-β signaling pathway and reducing nucleotide metabolite content. These findings would provide a theoretical foundation for enhancing the performance and meat quality of broilers by incorporating GAA as a feed additive.

Camellia oil exhibits anti-fatigue property by modulating antioxidant capacity, muscle fiber, and gut microbial composition in mice

Camellia seed oil (CO) has high nutritional value and multiple bioactivities. However, the specific anti-fatigue characteristics and the implied mechanism of CO have not yet been fully elucidated. Throughout this investigation, male C57BL/6J mice, aged 8 weeks, underwent exhaustive exercise with or without CO pretreatment (2, 4, and 6 mL/kg BW) for 28 days. CO could extend the rota-rod and running time, reduce blood urea nitrogen levels and serum lactic acid, and increase muscle and hepatic glycogen, adenosine triphosphate, and anti-oxidative indicators. Additionally, CO could upregulate the mRNA and Nrf2 protein expression levels, as well as enhance the levels of its downstream antioxidant enzymes and induce the myofiber-type transformation from fast to slow and attenuate the gut mechanical barrier. Moreover, CO could ameliorate gut dysbiosis by reducing Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes ratio at the phylum level, increasing the percentage of Alistipes, Alloprevotella, Lactobacillus, and Muribaculaceae, and decreasing the proportion of Dubosiella at the genus level. In addition, specific bacterial taxa, which were altered by CO, showed a significant correlation with partial fatigue-related parameters. These findings suggest that CO may alleviate fatigue by regulating antioxidant capacity, muscle fiber transformation, gut mechanical barrier, and gut microbial composition in mice. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: Our study revealed that camellia seed oil (CO) could ameliorate exercise-induced fatigue in mice by modulating antioxidant capacity, muscle fiber, and gut microbial composition in mice. Our results promote the application of CO as an anti-fatigue functional food that targets oxidative stress, myofiber-type transformation, and microbial community.

Molecular and Structural Alterations of Skeletal Muscle Tissue Nuclei during Aging

Aging is accompanied by a progressive loss of skeletal muscle mass and strength. The mechanisms underlying this phenomenon are certainly multifactorial and still remain to be fully elucidated. Changes in the cell nucleus structure and function have been considered among the possible contributing causes. This review offers an overview of the current knowledge on skeletal muscle nuclei in aging, focusing on the impairment of nuclear pathways potentially involved in age-related muscle decline. In skeletal muscle two types of cells are present: fiber cells, constituting the contractile muscle mass and containing hundreds of myonuclei, and the satellite cells, i.e., the myogenic mononuclear stem cells occurring at the periphery of the fibers and responsible for muscle growth and repair. Research conducted on different experimental models and with different methodological approaches demonstrated that both the myonuclei and satellite cell nuclei of aged skeletal muscles undergo several structural and molecular alterations, affecting chromatin organization, gene expression, and transcriptional and post-transcriptional activities. These alterations play a key role in the impairment of muscle fiber homeostasis and regeneration, thus contributing to the age-related decrease in skeletal muscle mass and function.

Obscurin Maintains Myofiber Identity in Extraocular Muscles

Purpose

The cytoskeleton of the extraocular muscles (EOMs) is significantly different from that of other muscles. We aimed to investigate the role of obscurin, a fundamental cytoskeletal protein, in the EOMs.

Methods

The distribution of obscurin in human and zebrafish EOMs was compared using immunohistochemistry. The two obscurin genes in zebrafish, obscna and obscnb, were knocked out using CRISPR/Cas9, and the EOMs were investigated using immunohistochemistry, qPCR, and in situ hybridization. The optokinetic reflex (OKR) in five-day-old larvae and adult obscna-/-;obscnb-/- and sibling control zebrafish was analyzed. Swimming distance was recorded at the same age.

Results

The obscurin distribution pattern was similar in human and zebrafish EOMs. The proportion of slow and fast myofibers was reduced in obscna-/-;obscnb-/- zebrafish EOMs but not in trunk muscle, whereas the number of myofibers containing cardiac myosin myh7 was significantly increased in EOMs of obscurin double mutants. Loss of obscurin resulted in less OKRs in zebrafish larvae but not in adult zebrafish.

Conclusions

Obscurin expression is conserved in normal human and zebrafish EOMs. Loss of obscurin induces a myofiber type shift in the EOMs, with upregulation of cardiac myosin heavy chain, myh7, showing an adaptation strategy in EOMs. Our model will facilitate further studies in conditions related to obscurin.

How Can Proteomics Help to Elucidate the Pathophysiological Crosstalk in Muscular Dystrophy and Associated Multi-System Dysfunction?

This perspective article is concerned with the question of how proteomics, which is a core technique of systems biology that is deeply embedded in the multi-omics field of modern bioresearch, can help us better understand the molecular pathogenesis of complex diseases. As an illustrative example of a monogenetic disorder that primarily affects the neuromuscular system but is characterized by a plethora of multi-system pathophysiological alterations, the muscle-wasting disease Duchenne muscular dystrophy was examined. Recent achievements in the field of dystrophinopathy research are described with special reference to the proteome-wide complexity of neuromuscular changes and body-wide alterations/adaptations. Based on a description of the current applications of top-down versus bottom-up proteomic approaches and their technical challenges, future systems biological approaches are outlined. The envisaged holistic and integromic bioanalysis would encompass the integration of diverse omics-type studies including inter- and intra-proteomics as the core disciplines for systematic protein evaluations, with sophisticated biomolecular analyses, including physiology, molecular biology, biochemistry and histochemistry. Integrated proteomic findings promise to be instrumental in improving our detailed knowledge of pathogenic mechanisms and multi-system dysfunction, widening the available biomarker signature of dystrophinopathy for improved diagnostic/prognostic procedures, and advancing the identification of novel therapeutic targets to treat Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

Research Note: Muscle hypertrophy is associated with reversed sexual dimorphism in body size of quail

Sexual dimorphism is phenotypic differences between males and females in the same species. In general, males in most animals are larger than females at the same age, however, in quail, females have a larger body size with greater muscle mass than males. To understand what characteristics in muscle growth play roles in reversed sexual dimorphism in quail, the weights and the characteristics of the pectoralis major and gastrocnemius muscles (PM and GM, respectively) of male and female quail were compared in the current study. The data showed that 15-wk-old female quail have significantly heavier bodies, and PM and GM weights compared to male quail (1.27-folds, 1.29-folds, and 1.16-folds, respectively). To compare muscle characteristics such as hypertrophy (increased size) and hyperplasia (increased cell number), the PM and GM were stained using hematoxylin and eosin, and then histological characteristics such as total cross-sectional area (CSA), number and size of myofibers, and muscle bundle of the muscles were measured and analyzed. In both PM and GM, there were no differences in total numbers of myofibers and muscle bundles as well as the average numbers of myofibers per bundle between sexes. However, the sizes of myofiber and the bundle were significantly increased in female compared to male (1.33-folds and 1.28-folds in PM, and both 1.23-folds in GM, respectively). The findings of the current study suggest that muscle hypertrophy in female quail, not hyperplasia, can be attributed to the sexual dimorphism in quail size.

A Novel Method for Thyroarytenoid Myofiber Culture

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

Myofiber culture has been employed to investigate muscle physiology in vitro and is well-established in the rodent hind limb. Thyroarytenoid (TA) myofiber culture has not been described, providing an opportunity to employ this method to investigate distinct TA myofiber functions. The purpose of this study was to assess the feasibility of a TA myofiber culture model.

STUDY DESIGN

In vitro.

METHODS

TA muscles from five Sprague Dawley rats were independently isolated and digested for 90 min. A smooth-tip, wide-bored pipette dissociated TA myofibers from cartilage, and the fibers were distributed on collagen-coated dishes and incubated at 37°C, 5% CO2 for 2 h. Myofiber specificity was determined via immunolabeling for desmin and myosin heavy chain (MHC). Myofibers viability was assessed over 7 days via esterase assay. Additional myofibers were immunolabeled for satellite cell marker Pax-7. Glucocorticoid (GC) receptor (GR) was immunolabeled following GC treatment.

RESULTS

The harvest technique yielded ~120 myofibers per larynx. By day 7, ~60% of the fibers remained attached and were calcein AM-positive/ethidium homodimer-negative, indicating viability. Myofibers were positive for desmin and MHC, indicating muscle specificity. Cells surrounding myofibers were positive for Pax-7, indicating the presence of myogenic satellite cells. Myofibers also responded to GC treatment as determined by GR nuclear translocation.

CONCLUSION

TA myofibers remained viable in culture for at least 7 days with a predictable response to exogenous stimuli. This technique provides novel investigative opportunities regarding TA structure and function.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

N/A Laryngoscope, 133:3109-3115, 2023.

Highly contractile 3D tissue engineered skeletal muscles from human iPSCs reveal similarities with primary myoblast-derived tissues

Skeletal muscle research is transitioning toward 3D tissue engineered in vitro models reproducing muscle's native architecture and supporting measurement of functionality. Human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) offer high yields of cells for differentiation. It has been difficult to differentiate high-quality, pure 3D muscle tissues from hiPSCs that show contractile properties comparable to primary myoblast-derived tissues. Here, we present a transgene-free method for the generation of purified, expandable myogenic progenitors (MPs) from hiPSCs grown under feeder-free conditions. We defined a protocol with optimal hydrogel and medium conditions that allowed production of highly contractile 3D tissue engineered skeletal muscles with forces similar to primary myoblast-derived tissues. Gene expression and proteomic analysis between hiPSC-derived and primary myoblast-derived 3D tissues revealed a similar expression profile of proteins involved in myogenic differentiation and sarcomere function. The protocol should be generally applicable for the study of personalized human skeletal muscle tissue in health and disease.

Mechanisms of mechanical overload-induced skeletal muscle hypertrophy: current understanding and future directions

Mechanisms underlying mechanical overload-induced skeletal muscle hypertrophy have been extensively researched since the landmark report by Morpurgo (1897) of "work-induced hypertrophy" in dogs that were treadmill trained. Much of the preclinical rodent and human resistance training research to date supports that involved mechanisms include enhanced mammalian/mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) signaling, an expansion in translational capacity through ribosome biogenesis, increased satellite cell abundance and myonuclear accretion, and postexercise elevations in muscle protein synthesis rates. However, several lines of past and emerging evidence suggest that additional mechanisms that feed into or are independent of these processes are also involved. This review first provides a historical account of how mechanistic research into skeletal muscle hypertrophy has progressed. A comprehensive list of mechanisms associated with skeletal muscle hypertrophy is then outlined, and areas of disagreement involving these mechanisms are presented. Finally, future research directions involving many of the discussed mechanisms are proposed.

Subchronic Arsenite Exposure Induced Atrophy and Erythropoietin Sensitivity Reduction in Skeletal Muscle Were Relevant to Declined Serum Melatonin Levels in Middle-Aged Rats

Arsenic is a kind of widespread environmental toxicant with multiorgan-toxic effects, and arsenic exposure is associated with the occurrence and development of many chronic diseases. The influence of environmental arsenic exposure on skeletal muscle, which is a vital organ of energy and glucose metabolism, has received increasing attention. This study aimed to investigate the types of inorganic arsenic-induced skeletal muscle injury, and the potential regulatory effects of melatonin (MT) and erythropoietin (EPO) in young (3-month-old) and middle-aged (12-month-old) rats. Our results showed that 1 mg/L sodium arsenite exposure for 3 months could accelerate gastrocnemius muscle atrophy and promote the switch of type II fibers to type I fibers in middle-aged rats; however, it did not cause significant pathological changes of gastrocnemius muscle in young rats. In addition, arsenite could inhibit serum MT levels, and promote serum EPO levels but inhibit EPO receptor (EPOR) expression in gastrocnemius muscle in middle-aged rats, while serum MT levels and EPOR expression in gastrocnemius muscle showed an opposite effect in young rats. Importantly, exogenous MT antagonized the arsenite-induced skeletal muscle toxic effect and restored serum EPO and gastrocnemius muscle EPOR expression levels in middle-aged rats. There was a positive correlation among gastrocnemius muscle index, serum MT level, and gastrocnemius muscle EPOR protein level in arsenite-exposed rats. This study demonstrated that inorganic arsenic could accelerate skeletal muscle mass loss and type II fiber reduction in middle-aged rats, which may be related to decreased MT secretion and declined EPO sensitivity in skeletal muscle.

PRMT5 links lipid metabolism to contractile function of skeletal muscles

Skeletal muscle plays a key role in systemic energy homeostasis besides its contractile function, but what links these functions is poorly defined. Protein Arginine Methyl Transferase 5 (PRMT5) is a well-known oncoprotein but also expressed in healthy tissues with unclear physiological functions. As adult muscles express high levels of Prmt5, we generated skeletal muscle-specific Prmt5 knockout (Prmt5MKO ) mice. We observe reduced muscle mass, oxidative capacity, force production, and exercise performance in Prmt5MKO mice. The motor deficiency is associated with scarce lipid droplets in myofibers due to defects in lipid biosynthesis and accelerated degradation. Specifically, PRMT5 deletion reduces dimethylation and stability of Sterol Regulatory Element-Binding Transcription Factor 1a (SREBP1a), a master regulator of de novo lipogenesis. Moreover, Prmt5MKO impairs the repressive H4R3 symmetric dimethylation at the Pnpla2 promoter, elevating the level of its encoded protein ATGL, the rate-limiting enzyme catalyzing lipolysis. Accordingly, skeletal muscle-specific double knockout of Pnpla2 and Prmt5 normalizes muscle mass and function. Together, our findings delineate a physiological function of PRMT5 in linking lipid metabolism to contractile function of myofibers.

Advanced Methodology for Rapid Isolation of Single Myofibers from Flexor Digitorum Brevis Muscle

Isolated individual myofibers are valuable experimental models that can be used in various conditions to understand skeletal muscle physiology and pathophysiology at the tissue and cellular level. This report details a time- and cost-effective method for isolation of single myofibers from the flexor digitorum brevis (FDB) muscle in both young and aged mice. The FDB muscle was chosen for its documented history in single myofiber experiments. By modifying published methods for FDB myofiber isolation, we have optimized the protocol by first separating FDB muscle into individual bundles before the digestion, followed by optimizing the subsequent digestion medium conditions to ensure reproducibility. Morphological and functional assessments demonstrate a high yield of isolated FDB myofibers with sarcolemma integrity achieved in a shorter time frame than previous published procedures. This method could be also adapted to other types of skeletal muscle. Additionally, this highly reproducible method can greatly reduce the number of animals needed to yield adequate numbers of myofibers for experiments. Thus, this advanced method for myofiber isolation has the potential to accelerate research in skeletal muscle physiology and screening potential therapeutics "ex vivo" for muscle diseases and regeneration.

Developmental Characteristics of Skeletal Muscle during the Embryonic Stage in Chinese Yellow Quail (Coturnix japonica)

The quail is an important research model, and the demand for quail meat has been increasing in recent years; therefore, it is worthwhile investigating the development of embryonic skeletal muscle and the expression patterns of regulatory genes. In this study, the expression of MyoD and Pax7 in the breast muscle (m. pectoralis major) and leg muscle (m. biceps femoris) of quail embryos on days 10 through 17 were determined using qRT-PCR. Paraffin sections of embryonic muscle were analyzed to characterize changes over time. Results showed that MyoD and Pax7 were expressed in both breast and leg muscles and played a significant role in embryonic muscle development. Compared to breast muscle, leg muscle grew faster and had greater weight and myofiber size. The findings suggested that embryonic day 12 (E12) may be a key point for muscle development. Correlation analysis showed that MyoD expression was significantly negatively correlated with muscle and embryo weight, whereas Pax7 gene expression had no significant correlation with these characteristics. These fundamental results provide a theoretical basis for understanding the characteristics and transition points of skeletal muscle development in quail embryos and an important reference for farmers raising quail from eggs.

Association Between Supraspinatus Tendon Retraction, Histologic Myofiber Size, and Supraspinatus Muscle Atrophy on MRI

BACKGROUND

Atrophy of the rotator cuff is a negative prognostic indicator after rotator cuff repair. Although full-thickness rotator cuff tears accompanied by tendon retraction are commonly associated with decreased muscle cross-sectional area (CSA) on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), it is unclear whether this is accompanied by histologic atrophy of rotator cuff myofibers.

PURPOSE

To evaluate the effect of supraspinatus tendon retraction and myofiber size on supraspinatus atrophy on MRI.

STUDY DESIGN

Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.

METHODS

Supraspinatus muscle biopsy specimens were obtained from consecutive patients undergoing arthroscopic shoulder surgery. Rotator cuff tears were classified according to size. Preoperative MRI was used to measure tendon retraction and CSA of the supraspinatus muscle in the Y-shaped view. The occupation ratio of the supraspinatus was calculated by dividing the supraspinatus CSA by the supraspinatus fossa CSA. Muscle biopsy specimens were examined using laminin to quantify myofiber CSA. The association between supraspinatus tear size and measures of histologic and MRI muscle atrophy were compared using standard statistical tests. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to identify independent predictors of muscle atrophy on MRI.

RESULTS

A total of 38 patients were included: 8 with no tear, 14 with a partial-thickness tear, and 16 with a full-thickness tear. Increasing tear size was associated with greater distance of tendon retraction (P < .001), smaller mean histologic myofiber size (P = .004), lower mean supraspinatus CSA on MRI (P < .001), and lower occupation ratio: 0.73 (control), 0.66 (partial tear), 0.53 (small to medium full-thickness tear), and 0.38 (large to massive full-thickness) (P < .001). On Pearson correlation analysis, tendon retraction demonstrated strong correlation with occupation ratio (-0.725; P < .001) and weak correlation with myofiber size (-0.437; P = .006), while occupation ratio showed moderate correlation with myofiber size (0.593; P < .001). Multivariable linear regression analysis demonstrated that increasing tendon retraction (P < .001), age (P = .034), and smaller histologic myofiber CSA (P = .047) were independently associated with greater supraspinatus atrophy on MRI.

CONCLUSION

Supraspinatus muscle atrophy appreciated on MRI is independently associated with patient age, tendon retraction, and atrophy of the supraspinatus myofibers at the histologic level.

Insights into Cell-Specific Functions of Microtubules in Skeletal Muscle Development and Homeostasis

The contractile cells of skeletal muscles, called myofibers, are elongated multinucleated syncytia formed and maintained by the fusion of proliferative myoblasts. Human myofibers can be hundreds of microns in diameter and millimeters in length. Myofibers are non-mitotic, obviating the need for microtubules in cell division. However, microtubules have been adapted to the unique needs of these cells and are critical for myofiber development and function. Microtubules in mature myofibers are highly dynamic, and studies in several experimental systems have demonstrated the requirements for microtubules in the unique features of muscle biology including myoblast fusion, peripheral localization of nuclei, assembly of the sarcomere, transport and signaling. Microtubule-binding proteins have also been adapted to the needs of the skeletal muscle including the expression of skeletal muscle-specific protein isoforms generated by alternative splicing. Here, we will outline the different roles microtubules play in skeletal muscle cells, describe how microtubule abnormalities can lead to muscle disease and discuss the broader implications for microtubule function.

Cellular and Subcellular Characteristics of Neuromuscular Junctions in Muscles with Disparate Duty Cycles and Myofiber Profiles

The neuromuscular system accounts for a large portion (~40%) of whole body mass while enabling body movement, including physical work and exercise. At the core of this system is the neuromuscular junction (NMJ) which is the vital synapse transducing electrical impulses from the motor neurons to their post-synaptic myofibers. Recent findings suggest that subcellular features (active zones) of the NMJ are distinctly sensitive to changes in activity relative to cellular features (nerve terminal branches, vesicles, receptors) of the NMJ. In the present investigation, muscles with different recruitment patterns, functions, and myofiber type profiles (soleus, plantaris, extensor digitorum longus [EDL]) were studied to quantify both cellular and subcellular NMJ characteristics along with myofiber type profiles. Results indicated that, in general, dimensions of subcellular components of NMJs mirrored cellular NMJ features when examining inter-muscle NMJ architecture. Typically, it was noted that the NMJs of the soleus, with its most pronounced recruitment pattern, were larger (p < 0.05) than NMJs of less recruited muscles. Moreover, it was revealed that myofiber size did not dictate NMJ size as soleus muscles displayed the smallest fibers (p < 0.05) while the plantaris muscles exhibited the largest fibers. In total, these data show that activity determines the size of NMJs and that generally, size dimensions of cellular and subcellular components of the NMJ are matched, and that the size of NMJs and their underlying myofibers are uncoupled.

Simultaneous loss of skeletal muscle myosin heavy chain IIx and IIb causes severe skeletal muscle hypoplasia in postnatal mice

The skeletal muscle myosin heavy chain (MyHC) is a fundamental component of the sarcomere structure and muscle contraction. Two of the three adult fast MyHCs, MyHC-IIx and MyHC-IIb, are encoded by Myh1 and Myh4, respectively. However, skeletal muscle disorders have not yet been linked to these genes in humans. MyHC-IIb is barely detectable in human skeletal muscles. Thus, to characterize the molecular function of skeletal muscle MyHCs in humans, investigation of the effect of simultaneous loss of MyHC-IIb and other MyHCs on skeletal muscle in mice is essential. Here, we generated double knockout (dKO) mice with simultaneous loss of adult fast MyHCs by introducing nonsense frameshift mutations into the Myh1 and Myh4 genes. The dKO mice appeared normal after birth and until 2 weeks of age but showed severe skeletal muscle hypoplasia after 2 weeks. In 3-week-old dKO mice, increased expression of other skeletal muscle MyHCs, such as MyHC-I, MyHC-IIa, MyHC-neo, and MyHC-emb, was observed. However, these expressions were not sufficient to compensate for the loss of MyHC-IIb and MyHC-IIx. Moreover, the aberrant sarcomere structure with altered expression of sarcomere components was observed in dKO mice. Our findings imply that the simultaneous loss of MyHC-IIb and MyHC-IIx is substantially detrimental to postnatal skeletal muscle function and will contribute to elucidating the molecular mechanisms of skeletal muscle wasting disorders caused by the loss of skeletal muscle MyHCs.

A clinical herbal prescription Gu-Shu-Kang capsule exerted beneficial effects on the musculoskeletal system of dexamethasone-treated mice by acting on tissue IGF-1 signalling pathway

CONTEXT

Gu-Shu-Kang (GSK) is a clinical traditional Chinese medicine prescription for the treatment of primary osteoporosis.

OBJECTIVE

This study investigates the protection of GSK against dexamethasone (Dex)-induced disturbance of musculoskeletal system in male mice and to identify the underlying mechanism.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Male C57BL/6 mice in Dex-treated groups were orally administered (i.g.) with vehicle, low dose (0.38 g/kg), middle dose (0.76 g/kg), or high dose (1.52 g/kg) of GSK for 8 weeks. A control group was designed without any treatment. The quadriceps femoris, tibialis anterior and gastrocnemius were harvested. Molecular expression was determined by RT-PCR and immunoblotting.

RESULTS

Treatment with GSK enhanced weight-loaded swimming time (from 411.7 ± 58.4 s in Dex group to 771.4 ± 87.3 s in GSK-M) and grip strength (from 357.8 ± 23.9 g in Dex group to 880.3 ± 47.6 g in GSK-M). GSK produced a rise in cross-sectional area of myofibers and promoted a switching of glycolytic-to-oxidative myofiber. The administration with GSK affected expression of muscle regulatory factors shown by the down-regulation in MuRF-1 and atrogin-1 and the up-regulation in myogenic differentiation factor (MyoD) and myosin heavy chain (MHC). GSK stimulated tissue IGF-1 signalling pathway (IGF-1R/PI3K/Akt), not only in skeletal muscle but also in bone associated with the amelioration of trabecular bone mineral density and the improvement of osteogenesis.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings revealed the potential mechanisms involved in the beneficial effects of Gu-Shu-Kang on musculoskeletal system in mice with challenging to dexamethasone, and this prescription may have applications in management for muscle atrophy and osteoporosis triggered by glucocorticoid.

Extracellular vesicle secretion is tissue-dependent ex vivo and skeletal muscle myofiber extracellular vesicles reach the circulation in vivo

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are biomarkers and modifiers of human disease. EVs secreted by insulin-responsive tissues like skeletal muscle (SkM) and white adipose tissue (WAT) contribute to metabolic health and disease but the relative abundance of EVs from these tissues has not been directly examined. Human Protein Atlas data and directly measuring EV secretion in mouse SkM and WAT using an ex vivo tissue explant model confirmed that SkM tissue secretes more EVs than WAT. Differences in EV secretion between SkM and WAT were not due to SkM contraction but may be explained by differences in tissue metabolic capacity. We next examined how many EVs secreted from SkM tissue ex vivo and in vivo are myofiber-derived. To do this, a SkM myofiber-specific dual fluorescent reporter mouse was created. Spectral flow cytometry revealed that SkM myofibers are a major source of SkM tissue-derived EVs ex vivo and EV immunocapture indicates that ∼5% of circulating tetraspanin-positive EVs are derived from SkM myofibers in vivo. Our findings demonstrate that 1) SkM secretes more EVs than WAT, 2) many SkM tissue EVs are derived from SkM myofibers, and 3) SkM myofiber-derived EVs reach the circulation in vivo. These findings advance our understanding of EV secretion between metabolically active tissues and provide direct evidence that SkM myofibers secrete EVs that can reach the circulation in vivo.

Microbiopsy Sampling for Examining Age-Related Differences in Skeletal Muscle Fiber Morphology and Composition

Introduction: The increasingly popular microbiopsy is an appealing alternative to the more invasive Bergström biopsy given the challenges associated with harvesting skeletal muscle in older populations. Parameters of muscle fiber morphology and composition derived from the microbiopsy have not been compared between young and older adults.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine muscle fiber morphology and composition in young (YM) and older (OM) males using the microbiopsy sampling technique. A secondary aim was to determine if specific strength is associated with serum levels of C-terminal agrin fragment [CAF; an indicator of neuromuscular junction (NMJ) degradation].

Methods: Thirty healthy, YM (n = 15, age = 20.7 ± 2.2 years) and OM (n = 15, age = 71.6 ± 3.9 years) underwent ultrasound imaging to determine whole-muscle cross-sectional area (CSA) of the vastus lateralis and rectus femoris as well as isometric and isokinetic (60°⋅s^–1 and 180°⋅s^–1) peak torque testing of the knee extensors. Microbiopsy samples of the vastus lateralis were collected from 13 YM and 11 OM, and immunofluorescence was used to calculate CSA and proportion of type I and type II fibers.

Results: Peak torque was lower in OM at all velocities (p ≤ 0.001; d = 1.39–1.86) but only lower at 180°⋅s^–1 (p = 0.003; d = 1.23) when normalized to whole-muscle CSA. Whole-muscle CSA was smaller in OM (p = 0.001; d = 1.34), but atrophy was not present at the single fiber level (p > 0.05). Per individual, ∼900 fibers were analyzed, and type I fiber CSA was larger (p = 0.05; d = 0.94) in OM which resulted in a smaller type II/I fiber CSA ratio (p = 0.015; d = 0.95). CAF levels were not sensitive to age (p = 0.159; d = 0.53) nor associated with specific strength or whole-muscle CSA in OM.

Conclusion: The microbiopsy appears to be a viable alternative to the Bergström biopsy for histological analyses of skeletal muscle in older adults. NMJ integrity was not influential for age-related differences in specific strength in our healthy, non-sarcopenic older sample.

Pathophysiology and mechanisms of primary sarcopenia (Review)

Aging causes skeletal muscle atrophy, and myofiber loss can be a critical component of this process. In 1989, Rosenberg emphasized the importance of the loss of skeletal muscle mass that occurs with aging and coined the term 'sarcopenia'. Since then, sarcopenia has attracted considerable attention due to the aging population in developed countries. The presence of sarcopenia is closely related to staggering, falls and even frailty in the elderly, which in turn leads to the need for nursing care. Sarcopenia is often associated with a poor prognosis in the elderly. Therefore, it is crucial to investigate the causes and pathogenesis of sarcopenia, and to develop and introduce interventional strategies in line with these causes and pathogenesis. Sarcopenia can be a primary component of physical frailty. The association between sarcopenia, frailty and locomotive syndrome is complex; however, sarcopenia is a muscle‑specific concept that is relatively easy to approach in research. In the elderly, a lack of exercise, malnutrition and hormonal changes lead to neuromuscular junction insufficiency, impaired capillary blood flow, reduced repair and regeneration capacity due to a decrease in the number of muscle satellite cells, the infiltration of inflammatory cells and oxidative stress, resulting in muscle protein degradation exceeding synthesis. In addition, mitochondrial dysfunction causes metabolic abnormalities, such as insulin resistance, which may lead to quantitative and qualitative abnormalities in skeletal muscle, resulting in sarcopenia. The present review article focuses on age‑related primary sarcopenia and outlines its pathogenesis and mechanisms.

Contractile Properties of MHC I and II Fibers From Highly Trained Arm and Leg Muscles of Cross-Country Skiers

Introduction

Little is known about potential differences in contractile properties of muscle fibers of the same type in arms and legs. Accordingly, the present study was designed to compare the force-generating capacity and Ca²⁺ sensitivity of fibers from arm and leg muscles of highly trained cross-country skiers.

Method

Single muscle fibers of m. vastus lateralis and m. triceps brachii of eight highly trained cross-country skiers were analyzed with respect to maximal Ca²⁺-activated force, specific force and Ca²⁺ sensitivity.

Result

The maximal Ca²⁺-activated force was greater for myosin heavy chain (MHC) II than MHC I fibers in both the arm (+62%, P < 0.001) and leg muscle (+77%, P < 0.001), with no differences between limbs for each MHC isoform. In addition, the specific force of MHC II fibers was higher than that of MHC I fibers in both arms (+41%, P = 0.002) and legs (+95%, P < 0.001). The specific force of MHC II fibers was the same in both limbs, whereas MHC I fibers from the m. triceps brachii were, on average, 39% stronger than fibers of the same type from the m. vastus lateralis (P = 0.003). pCa₅₀ was not different between MHC I and II fibers in neither arms nor legs, but the MHC I fibers of m. triceps brachii demonstrated higher Ca²⁺ sensitivity than fibers of the same type from m. vastus lateralis (P = 0.007).

Conclusion

Comparison of muscles in limbs equally well trained revealed that MHC I fibers in the arm muscle exhibited a higher specific force-generating capacity and greater Ca²⁺ sensitivity than the same type of fiber in the leg, with no such difference in the case of MHC II fibers. These distinct differences in the properties of fibers of the same type in equally well-trained muscles open new perspectives in muscle physiology.

The Dunkin Hartley Guinea Pig Is a Model of Primary Osteoarthritis That Also Exhibits Early Onset Myofiber Remodeling That Resembles Human Musculoskeletal Aging

Skeletal muscle dysfunction, articular cartilage degeneration, and bone loss occur essentially in parallel during aging. Mechanisms contributing to this systemic musculoskeletal decline remain incompletely understood, limiting progress toward developing effective therapeutics. Because the progression of human musculoskeletal aging is slow, researchers rely on rodent models to identify mechanisms and test interventions. The Dunkin Hartley guinea pig is an outbred strain that begins developing primary osteoarthritis by 4 months of age with a progression and pathology similar to aging humans. The purpose of this study was to determine if skeletal muscle remodeling during the progression of osteoarthritis in these guinea pigs resembles musculoskeletal aging in humans. We compared Dunkin Hartley guinea pigs to Strain 13 guinea pigs, which develop osteoarthritis much later in the lifespan. We measured myofiber type and size, muscle density, and long-term fractional protein synthesis rates of the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles in 5, 9, and 15-month-old guinea pigs. There was an age-related decline in skeletal muscle density, a greater proportion of smaller myofibers, and a decline in type II concomitant with a rise in type I myofibers in the gastrocnemius muscles from Dunkin Hartley guinea pigs only. These changes were accompanied by age-related declines in myofibrillar and mitochondrial protein synthesis in the gastrocnemius and soleus. Collectively, these findings suggest Dunkin Hartley guinea pigs experience myofiber remodeling alongside the progression of osteoarthritis, consistent with human musculoskeletal aging. Thus, Dunkin Hartley guinea pigs may be a model to advance discovery and therapeutic development for human musculoskeletal aging.

Precision remodeling: how exercise improves mitochondrial quality in myofibers

The profound energetic demand of prolonged exercise imposed upon skeletal muscle and the heart is met by oxidation of substrate within mitochondria. As such, several coordinated events are initiated in order to maintain mitochondria, collectively known as mitochondrial quality control. In this review, we discuss how mitochondrial quality control functions to maintain the integrity of the reticulum and energy production in response to prolonged exercise, as well as the relevant signaling events that dictate these responses. Based upon the prevailing data in the field, we propose a model where exercise-mediated quality control may be chiefly regulated through local mechanisms, thus allowing for the remarkable precision in mitochondrial quality control events.

Membrane Repair Deficit in Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy

Deficits in plasma membrane repair have been identified in dysferlinopathy and Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, and contribute to progressive myopathy. Although Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy (FSHD) shares clinicopathological features with these muscular dystrophies, it is unknown if FSHD is characterized by plasma membrane repair deficits. Therefore, we exposed immortalized human FSHD myoblasts, immortalized myoblasts from unaffected siblings, and myofibers from a murine model of FSHD (FLExDUX4) to focal, pulsed laser ablation of the sarcolemma. Repair kinetics and success were determined from the accumulation of intracellular FM1-43 dye post-injury. We subsequently treated FSHD myoblasts with a DUX4-targeting antisense oligonucleotide (AON) to reduce DUX4 expression, and with the antioxidant Trolox to determine the role of DUX4 expression and oxidative stress in membrane repair. Compared to unaffected myoblasts, FSHD myoblasts demonstrate poor repair and a greater percentage of cells that failed to repair, which was mitigated by AON and Trolox treatments. Similar repair deficits were identified in FLExDUX4 myofibers. This is the first study to identify plasma membrane repair deficits in myoblasts from individuals with FSHD, and in myofibers from a murine model of FSHD. Our results suggest that DUX4 expression and oxidative stress may be important targets for future membrane-repair therapies.

Curcumin Ameliorates Heat-Induced Injury through NADPH Oxidase-Dependent Redox Signaling and Mitochondrial Preservation in C2C12 Myoblasts and Mouse Skeletal Muscle

BACKGROUND

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase and the mitochondrial electron transport chain are the primary sources of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Previous studies have shown that severe heat exposure damages mitochondria and causes excessive mitochondrial ROS production that contributes to the pathogenesis of heat-related illnesses.

OBJECTIVES

We tested whether the antioxidant curcumin could protect against heat-induced mitochondrial dysfunction and skeletal muscle injury, and characterized the possible mechanism.

METHODS

Mouse C2C12 myoblasts and rat flexor digitorum brevis (FDB) myofibers were treated with 5 μM curcumin; adult male C57BL/6J mice received daily curcumin (15, 50, or 100 mg/kg body weight) by gavage for 10 consecutive days. We compared ROS levels and mitochondrial morphology and function between treatment and nontreatment groups under unheated or heat conditions, and investigated the upstream mechanism and the downstream effect of curcumin-regulated ROS production.

RESULTS

In C2C12 myoblasts, curcumin prevented heat-induced mitochondrial fragmentation, ROS overproduction, and apoptosis (all P < 0.05). Curcumin treatment for 2 and 4 h at 37°C induced increases in ROS levels by 42% and 59% (dihydroethidium-derived fluorescence), accompanied by increases in NADPH oxidase protein expression by 24% and 32%, respectively (all P < 0.01). In curcumin-treated cells, chemical inhibition and genetic knockdown of NADPH oxidase restored ROS to levels similar to those of controls, indicating NADPH oxidase mediates curcumin-stimulated ROS production. Moreover, curcumin induced ROS-dependent shifting of the mitochondrial fission-fusion balance toward fusion, and increases in mitochondrial mass by 143% and membrane potential by 30% (both P < 0.01). In rat FDB myofibers and mouse gastrocnemius muscles, curcumin preserved mitochondrial morphology and function during heat stress, and prevented heat-induced mitochondrial ROS overproduction and tissue injury (all P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Curcumin regulates ROS hormesis favoring mitochondrial fusion/elongation, biogenesis, and improved function in rodent skeletal muscle. Curcumin may be an effective therapeutic target for heat-related illness and other mitochondrial diseases.

Sarcoplasmic Hypertrophy in Skeletal Muscle: A Scientific "Unicorn" or Resistance Training Adaptation?

Skeletal muscle fibers are multinucleated cells that contain mostly myofibrils suspended in an aqueous media termed the sarcoplasm. Select evidence suggests sarcoplasmic hypertrophy, or a disproportionate expansion of the sarcoplasm relative to myofibril protein accretion, coincides with muscle fiber or tissue growth during resistance training. There is also evidence to support other modes of hypertrophy occur during periods of resistance training including a proportional accretion of myofibril protein with fiber or tissue growth (i.e., conventional hypertrophy), or myofibril protein accretion preceding fiber or tissue growth (i.e., myofibril packing). In this review, we discuss methods that have been used to investigate these modes of hypertrophy. Particular attention is given to sarcoplasmic hypertrophy throughout. Thus, descriptions depicting this process as well as the broader implications of this phenomenon will be posited. Finally, we propose future human and rodent research that can further our understanding in this area of muscle physiology.

Identifying the Structural Adaptations that Drive the Mechanical Load-Induced Growth of Skeletal Muscle: A Scoping Review

The maintenance of skeletal muscle mass plays a critical role in health and quality of life. One of the most potent regulators of skeletal muscle mass is mechanical loading, and numerous studies have led to a reasonably clear understanding of the macroscopic and microscopic changes that occur when the mechanical environment is altered. For instance, an increase in mechanical loading induces a growth response that is mediated, at least in part, by an increase in the cross-sectional area of the myofibers (i.e., myofiber hypertrophy). However, very little is known about the ultrastructural adaptations that drive this response. Even the most basic questions, such as whether mechanical load-induced myofiber hypertrophy is mediated by an increase in the size of the pre-existing myofibrils and/or an increase in the number myofibrils, have not been resolved. In this review, we thoroughly summarize what is currently known about the macroscopic, microscopic and ultrastructural changes that drive mechanical load-induced growth and highlight the critical gaps in knowledge that need to be filled.

Transcriptome Characterization of Repressed Embryonic Myogenesis Due to Maternal Calorie Restriction

Fetal malnutrition decreases skeletal myofiber number and muscle mass in neonatal mammals, which increases the risk of developing obesity and diabetes in adult life. However, the associated molecular mechanisms remain unclear. Here, we investigated how the nutrient (calorie) availability affects embryonic myogenesis using a porcine model. Sows were given a normal or calorie restricted diet, following which skeletal muscle was harvested from the fetuses at 35, 55, and 90 days of gestation (dg) and used for histochemical analysis and high-throughput sequencing. We observed abrupt repression of primary myofiber formation following maternal calorie restriction (MCR). Transcriptome profiling of prenatal muscles revealed that critical genes and muscle-specific miRNAs associated with increased proliferation and myoblast differentiation were downregulated during MCR-induced repression of myogenesis. Moreover, we identified several novel miRNA-mRNA interactions through an integrative analysis of their expression profiles, devising a putative molecular network involved in the regulation of myogenesis. Interestingly, NC_010454.3_1179 was identified as a novel myogenic miRNA that can base-pair with sequences in the 3'-UTR of myogenic differentiation protein 1 (MyoD1). And we found that this UTR inhibited the expression of a linked reporter gene encoding a key myogenic regulatory factor, resulting in suppression of myogenesis. Our results greatly increase our understanding of the mechanisms underlying the nutrient-modulated myogenesis, and may also serve as a valuable resource for further investigation of fundamental developmental processes or assist in rational target selection ameliorating repressed myogenesis under fetal malnutrition.

Timing Is Everything-The High Sensitivity of Avian Satellite Cells to Thermal Conditions During Embryonic and Posthatch Periods

Myofiber formation is essentially complete at hatch, but myofiber hypertrophy increases posthatch through the assimilation of satellite cell nuclei into myofibers. Satellite cell proliferation and differentiation occur during the early growth phase, which in meat-type poultry terminates at around 8 days posthatch. Thus, any factor that affects the accumulation of satellite cells during late-term embryogenesis or early posthatch will dictate long-term muscle growth. This review will focus on the intimate relationship between thermal conditions during chick embryogenesis and the early posthatch period, and satellite cell myogenesis and pectoralis growth and development. Satellite cells are highly sensitive to temperature changes, particularly when those changes occur during crucial periods of their myogenic activity. Therefore, timing, temperature, and duration of thermal treatments have a great impact on satellite cell activity and fate, affecting muscle development and growth in the long run. Short and mild thermal manipulations during embryogenesis or thermal conditioning in the early posthatch period promote myogenic cell proliferation and differentiation, and have long-term promotive effects on muscle growth. However, chronic heat stress during the first 2 weeks of life has adverse effects on these parameters and may lead to muscle myopathies.

Effects of Slaughter Age on Muscle Characteristics and Meat Quality Traits of Da-Heng Meat Type Birds

Simple Summary

The current work evaluated the breast muscle performance, meat quality traits, and myofiber characteristics of Da-Heng meat type birds with 60, 90, 120, 150, 180 days of age. Older chickens often presented a higher pH, lower drip loss, higher shear force, darker, and redder breast meat. The correlation coefficients showed that myofiber characteristics played an important role in breast pH values, drip loss, and meat color.

Abstract

Due to the increasing demand for producing chickens with high meat quality, there is a need to determine its mode of action on chicken meat quality traits across a wider age spectrum. In this study, five groups of 200 male Da-Heng meat type birds were reared until slaughter age of 60, 90, 120, 150, 180 days old and breast muscle performance, meat quality traits, and myofiber characteristics were evaluated. The larger body weight and breast weight of chicken are based on larger myofiber diameter and area, less myofiber density for the older birds than younger birds. There was an age effect on all meat quality traits of chicken breast muscle (p < 0.05). Older chickens often presented a higher pH, lower drip loss, higher shear force, darker, and redder breast meat. The correlation coefficients showed that myofiber characteristics played an important role in breast pH values, drip loss, and meat color (p < 0.05). Besides, significant correlations were also found between meat quality traits (p < 0.05). Further studies are needed to explore the biochemical character and potential molecular mechanism of chicken breast muscle to determine the factors that causes these age-related differences in meat quality in the current study.

Atmospheric Ammonia Affects Myofiber Development and Lipid Metabolism in Growing Pig Muscle

Ammonia, an aerial pollutant in animal facilities, affects animal health. Recent studies showed that aerial ammonia negatively impacts meat quality but the mechanism remains unknown. To understand how ammonia drives its adverse effects on pig meat quality, 18 crossbred gilts were exposed to 0, 10 or 25 mg/m³ ammonia for 25 days. Ammonia exposure increased fat content in the Longissimus dorsi muscle, and meat color got lighter after 25 mg/m³ ammonia exposure. Analysis of MyHC isoforms showed an increased MyHC IIx but decreased MyHC I after ammonia exposure. Besides, muscular glutamine decreased significantly as aerial ammonia increased. Although hyperammonemia was reported to upregulate MSTN and inhibit downstream mTOR pathway, no changes have been found in the mRNA expression level of MSTN and protein expression level of mTOR signal pathway after ammonia exposure. RNA-Seq showed that 10 mg/m³ ammonia exposure altered genes related to myofiber development (MyoD1, MyoG), whereas 25 mg/m³ ammonia affected genes associated with fatty acid synthesis and β-oxidation (SCD, FADS1, FASN, ACADL). Collectively, our findings showed aerial ammonia exposure appears to regulate myofiber development and lipid metabolism in the skeletal muscle, which results in the negative impacts on meat quality in pigs.

Broiler chicken myofiber morphometrics and myogenic stem cell population heterogeneity1,2

Myogenic stem cells (MSC), also known as satellite cells, play a key role in mediating post-hatch skeletal muscle growth in broiler chickens. Information regarding the heterogeneity of MSC populations and myofiber size distributions in different muscles of modern broiler strains of both sexes is scarce. Thus, myofiber cross-sectional area (CSA) and myogenic regulatory factor expression by MSC populations in 2 functionally different muscles (Biceps femoris, BF and Pectoralis major, PM) from both sexes of broilers from 2 strains, Ross 708 x Ross 708 (ROSS; Aviagen Group, Huntsville, AL) and Red Ranger (RR; S&G Poultry, Clanton, AL) was evaluated. Female and male broilers from both strains (n = 80 birds per strain) were reared for 43 d on a common corn and soybean meal-based diet. At 43 d of age, 8 birds per sex per strain (n = 32 total) were euthanized and PM and BF muscle samples from each bird were analyzed using cryohistology, immunofluorescence (IF) staining, and fluorescence microscopy. Cryosections from each muscle from each bird were IF stained to detect Myf-5, MyoD, and Pax7-expressing MSC. The CSA of every fiber in each digital image was measured and MSC populations (Myf-5+, MyoD+, Pax7+, Myf-5+: MyoD+, Myf-5+: Pax7+, MyoD+: Pax7+, and Myf-5+: MyoD+: Pax7+) were enumerated. Myofiber CSA was similar among the 2 strains and 2 sexes (P > 0.05). As expected, mean myofiber CSA was greater in the predominantly fast-twitch PM than the predominantly slow-twitch BF muscle (P = 0.006). At 43 d of age, ROSS broilers had a 32% larger population of Myf-5+: MyoD+: Pax7+ MSC compared with RR (P = 0.04). The heterogeneity of MSC was similar among the sexes. While the total MSC population was larger in the BF muscle compared with the PM (P < 0.05), the Myf-5+ and Pax7+ MSC densities were similar among muscles (P > 0.05). The major differences in myofiber morphometrics and MSC heterogeneity were not among the different broiler strains or sexes but were instead, between the 2 functionally different muscles.

Mineralocorticoid Receptor Signaling Contributes to Normal Muscle Repair After Acute Injury

Acute skeletal muscle injury is followed by a temporal response of immune cells, fibroblasts, and muscle progenitor cells within the muscle microenvironment to restore function. These same cell types are repeatedly activated in muscular dystrophy from chronic muscle injury, but eventually, the regenerative portion of the cycle is disrupted and fibrosis replaces degenerated muscle fibers. Mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) antagonist drugs have been demonstrated to increase skeletal muscle function, decrease fibrosis, and directly improve membrane integrity in muscular dystrophy mice, and therefore are being tested clinically. Conditional knockout of MR from muscle fibers in muscular dystrophy mice also improves skeletal muscle function and decreases fibrosis. The mechanism of efficacy likely results from blocking MR signaling by its endogenous agonist aldosterone, being produced at high local levels in regions of muscle damage by infiltrating myeloid cells. Since chronic and acute injuries share the same cellular processes to regenerate muscle, and MR antagonists are clinically used for a wide variety of conditions, it is crucial to define the role of MR signaling in normal muscle repair after injury. In this study, we performed acute injuries using barium chloride injections into tibialis anterior muscles both in myofiber MR conditional knockout mice on a wild-type background (MRcko) and in MR antagonist-treated wild-type mice. Steps of the muscle regeneration response were analyzed at 1, 4, 7, or 14 days after injury. Presence of the aldosterone synthase enzyme was also assessed during the injury repair process. We show for the first time aldosterone synthase localization in infiltrating immune cells of normal skeletal muscle after acute injury. MRcko mice had an increased muscle area infiltrated by aldosterone synthase positive myeloid cells compared to control injured animals. Both MRcko and MR antagonist treatment stabilized damaged myofibers and increased collagen infiltration or compaction at 4 days post-injury. MR antagonist treatment also led to reduced myofiber size at 7 and 14 days post-injury. These data support that MR signaling contributes to the normal muscle repair process following acute injury. MR antagonist treatment delays muscle fiber growth, so temporary discontinuation of these drugs after a severe muscle injury could be considered.

Reduced fibrillar collagen accumulation in skeletal muscle of secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC)-null mice

We have previously shown that secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC) promotes myogenic differentiation of rat skeletal muscle progenitor cells in vitro, and in vivo small interfering RNA (siRNA)-mediated transient suppression of SPARC expression in skeletal muscle of mice causes atrophic changes of myofibers, suggesting that SPARC plays a role in the maintenance of skeletal muscle function. In order to know the effect of long-term deficiency of SPARC on skeletal muscle, we performed phenotypic analyses of skeletal muscle of SPARC-null mice. Age-associated changes of myofiber diameters were comparable between wild type (WT) and SPARC-null mice at all ages examined, indicating that the growth of myofibers is unaffected by the absence of SPARC. On the other hand, accumulation of fibrillar collagen was significantly reduced in SPARC-null mice compared to WT mice after 5 months of age without significant changes of collagen I gene expression. The results obtained in the present study suggest that SPARC plays a role to maintain the stiffness of skeletal muscle by regulating collagen accumulation.

In Vitro Modelling of Nerve-Muscle Connectivity in a Compartmentalised Tissue Culture Device

Motor neurons project axons from the hindbrain and spinal cord to muscle, where they induce myofibre contractions through neurotransmitter release at neuromuscular junctions. Studies of neuromuscular junction formation and homeostasis have been largely confined to in vivo models. In this study we have merged three powerful tools - pluripotent stem cells, optogenetics and microfabrication - and designed an open microdevice in which motor axons grow from a neural compartment containing embryonic stem cell-derived motor neurons and astrocytes through microchannels to form functional neuromuscular junctions with contractile myofibers in a separate compartment. Optogenetic entrainment of motor neurons in this reductionist neuromuscular circuit enhanced neuromuscular junction formation more than two-fold, mirroring the activity-dependence of synapse development in vivo. We incorporated an established motor neuron disease model into our system and found that coculture of motor neurons with SOD1G93A astrocytes resulted in denervation of the central compartment and diminished myofiber contractions, a phenotype which was rescued by the Receptor Interacting Serine/Threonine Kinase 1 (RIPK1) inhibitor Necrostatin. This coculture system replicates key aspects of nerve-muscle connectivity in vivo and represents a rapid and scalable alternative to animal models of neuromuscular function and disease.

The thickness of poly-phenoxyethyl methacrylate brush interferes with cellular behavior and function of myofibers

Introducing or grafting molecules onto biomaterial surfaces to regulate muscle cell destination via biophysical cues is one of the important steps for biomaterial design in muscle tissue engineering. Therefore, it is important to understand the interaction between myoblasts and myofibers with substrates modified by biomimetic layer with different thicknesses. In this study, we used a surface-induced atom transfer radical polymerization method to synthetize and graft poly-phenoxyethyl methacrylate (PHEMA) brushes having different lengths on the glass substrates. C2C12 myoblasts were seeded on the PHEMA brushes and differentiated using horse serum, for analyzing the sensibility of muscle cells to feel environment changing, and further investigating whether the depths of grafting layer on the biomaterial surface are important factors in regulating muscle cell behaviors. Our results demonstrated that on the thicker PHEMA brushes surface (200 and 450 nm), C2C12 myoblasts showed a better survival and proliferation and were favorable for cell fusion and myotube formation. Furthermore, myofibers survived on the thicker brushes were more functional and upregulated cytoskeleton proteins (tubulin, vimentin, and vinculin) and FAK levels, and enhanced the expression levels for mechanical stress molecules (HGF, NOS-1, and c-Met). These results suggest that grafting thickness of PHEMA layer on the substrate led to the myoblasts/myofiber behavior change, which would be valuable for the design and preparation of the modified layer on muscle tissue engineering scaffolds. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 107A: 1264-1272, 2019.

K⁺ and Rb⁺ Affinities of the Na,K-ATPase α₁ and α₂ Isozymes: An Application of ICP-MS for Quantification of Na⁺ Pump Kinetics in Myofibers

The potassium affinities of Na,K-ATPase isozymes are important determinants of their physiological roles in skeletal muscle. This study measured the apparent K⁺ and Rb⁺ affinities of the Na,K-ATPase α₁ and α₂ isozymes in intact, dissociated myofibers obtained from WT and genetically altered mice (α₁^S/Sα₂^R/R and skα₂^−/−). It also validates a new method to quantify cations in intact, dissociated myofibers, using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Our findings were that: (1) The extracellular substrate sites of Na,K-ATPase bind Rb⁺ and K⁺ with comparable apparent affinities; however; turnover rate is reduced when Rb⁺ is the transported ion; (2) The rate of Rb⁺ uptake by the Na,K-ATPase is not constant but declines with a half-time of approximately 1.5 min; (3) The apparent K⁺ affinity of the α₂ isozymes for K⁺ is significantly lower than α₁. When measured in intact fibers of WT and α₁^S/Sα₂^R/R mice in the presence of 10 µM ouabain; the K_1/2,K of α₁ and α₂ isozymes are 1.3 and 4 mM, respectively. Collectively, these results validate the single fiber model for studies of Na,K-ATPase transport and kinetic constants, and they imply the existence of mechanisms that dynamically limit pump activity during periods of active transport.

Identification of new biophysical markers for pathological ventricular remodelling in tachycardia-induced dilated cardiomyopathy

Our aim was to identify biophysical biomarkers of ventricular remodelling in tachycardia-induced dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). Our study includes healthy controls (N = 7) and DCM pigs (N = 10). Molecular analysis showed global myocardial metabolic abnormalities, some of them related to myocardial hibernation in failing hearts, supporting the translationality of our model to study cardiac remodelling in dilated cardiomyopathy. Histological analysis showed unorganized and agglomerated collagen accumulation in the dilated ventricles and a higher percentage of fibrosis in the right (RV) than in the left (LV) ventricle (P = .016). The Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) 1st and 2nd indicators, which are markers of the myofiber/collagen ratio, were reduced in dilated hearts, with the 1st indicator reduced by 45% and 53% in the RV and LV, respectively, and the 2nd indicator reduced by 25% in the RV. The 3rd FTIR indicator, a marker of the carbohydrate/lipid ratio, was up-regulated in the right and left dilated ventricles but to a greater extent in the RV (2.60-fold vs 1.61-fold, P = .049). Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) showed a depression of the freezable water melting point in DCM ventricles - indicating structural changes in the tissue architecture - and lower protein stability. Our results suggest that the 1st, 2nd and 3rd FTIR indicators are useful markers of cardiac remodelling. Moreover, the 2nd and 3rd FITR indicators, which are altered to a greater extent in the right ventricle, are associated with greater fibrosis.

Early posthatch thermal stress affects breast muscle development and satellite cell growth and characteristics in broilers

Heat or cold stress, can disrupt well-being and physiological responses in birds. This study aimed to elucidate the effects of continuous heat exposure in the first 2 wk of age on muscle development in broilers, with an emphasis on the pectoralis muscle satellite cell population. Chicks were reared for 13 d under either commercial conditions or a temperature regime that was 5°C higher. Body and muscle weights, as well as absolute muscle growth were lower in heat-exposed chicks from d 6 onward. The number of satellite cells derived from the experimental chicks was higher in the heat-treated group on d 3 but lower on d 8 and 13 compared to controls. This was reflected in a lower number of myonuclei expressing proliferating nuclear cell antigen in cross sections of pectoralis major muscle sampled on d 8. However, a TUNEL assay revealed similar cell survival in both groups. Mean myofiber diameter and distribution were lower in muscle sections sampled on d 8 and 13 in heat-treated versus control group, suggesting that the lower muscle growth is due to changes in muscle hypertrophy. Oil-Red O staining showed a higher number of satellite cells with lipids in the heat-treated compared to the control group on these days. Moreover, lipid deposition was observed in pectoralis muscle cross sections derived from the heat-treated chicks on d 13, whereas the controls barely exhibited any lipid staining. The gene and protein expression levels of CCAAT/enhancer binding protein β in pectoralis muscle from the heat-treated group were significantly higher on d 13 than in controls, while myogenin levels were similar. The results suggest high sensitivity of muscle progenitor cells in the early posthatch period at a time when they are highly active, to chronic heat exposure, leading to impaired myogenicity of the satellite cells and increased fat deposition.

SIRT1 regulates nuclear number and domain size in skeletal muscle fibers

Skeletal muscle fibers are giant multinucleated cells wherein individual nuclei govern the protein synthesis in a finite volume of cytoplasm; this is termed the myonuclear domain (MND). The factors that control MND size remain to be defined. In the present study, we studied the contribution of the NAD⁺‐dependent deacetylase, sirtuin 1 (SIRT1), to the regulation of nuclear number and MND size. For this, we isolated myofibers from mice with tissue‐specific inactivation (mKO) or inducible overexpression (imOX) of SIRT1 and analyzed the 3D organisation of myonuclei. In imOX mice, the number of nuclei was increased whilst the average MND size was decreased as compared to littermate controls. Our findings were the opposite in mKO mice. Muscle stem cell (satellite cell) numbers were reduced in mKO muscles, a possible explanation for the lower density of myonuclei in these mice; however, no change was observed in imOX mice, suggesting that other factors might also be involved, such as the functional regulation of stem cells/muscle precursors. Interestingly, however, the changes in the MND volume did not impact the force‐generating capacity of muscle fibers. Taken together, our results demonstrate that SIRT1 is a key regulator of MND sizes, although the underlying molecular mechanisms and the cause‐effect relationship between MND and muscle function remain to be fully defined.

Predicting myofiber size with electrical impedance myography: A study in immature mice

INTRODUCTION

Electrical impedance can be used to estimate cellular characteristics. We sought to determine whether it could be used to approximate myofiber size using standard prediction modeling approaches.

METHODS

Forty-four C57BL/6J wild-type immature mice of varying ages underwent electrical impedance myography (EIM) with a needle electrode array placed in the gastrocnemius. Animals were then humanely killed and muscle fixed, stained, and myofiber size quantified. Two different statistical prediction models were then applied.

RESULTS

Impedance parameters showed major variation with increasing myofiber size. The prediction models based on EIM data alone were able to predict fiber size, with errors in the range of ±69.05-78.44 µm2 (16.19%-18.40% with respect to the average myofiber size).

DISCUSSION

By using well-established statistical models, EIM data alone can provide a satisfactory estimate of myofiber size. Additional study of this approach for approximating myofiber size without the requirement of removing tissue for histological analysis is warranted. Muscle Nerve, 2018.

The Process of Engraftment of Myogenic Cells in Skeletal Muscles of Primates: Understanding Clinical Observations and Setting Directions in Cell Transplantation Research

We studied in macaques the evolution of the intramuscular transplantation of muscle precursor cells between the time of administration and the time at which the graft is considered stable. Satellite cell–derived myoblasts labeled with ß-galactosidase were transplanted into 1 cm³ muscle regions following cell culture and transplantation protocols similar to our last clinical trials. These regions were biopsied 1 h, 1, 3, 7 d, and 3 wk later and analyzed by histology. We observed that the cell suspension leaks from the muscle bundles during injection toward the epimysium and perimysium, where most cells accumulate after transplantation. We observed evidence of necrosis, apoptosis, and mitosis in the accumulations of grafted cells, and of potential migration to participate in myofiber regeneration in the surrounding muscle bundles. After 3 wk, the compact accumulations of grafted cells left only some graft-derived myotubes and small myofibers in the perimysium. Hybrid myofibers were abundant in the muscle fascicles at 3 wk posttransplantation, and they most likely occur by grafted myoblasts that migrated from the peripheral accumulations than by the few remaining within the fascicles immediately after injection. These observations explain the findings in clinical trials of myoblast transplantation and provide information for the future research in cell therapy in myology.

Reduced longitudinal contraction is associated with ischemic mitral regurgitation after posterior MI

The role of left ventricular (LV) longitudinal contraction in ischemic mitral regurgitation (MR) remains unclear. We hypothesized that reduced longitudinal contraction disrupts normal mitral valve plane displacement during systole and leads to mitral valve tethering, thereby inducing ischemic MR. Twenty-three Yorkshire pigs underwent induction of different-sized posterior myocardial infarction (MI) using a percutaneous approach. The incidence of MR and its association with LV longitudinal strain were examined using speckle-tracking echocardiography at 1 mo post-MI to determine their relationship. A total of 17 pigs survived MI and completed the study. Pigs developed no more than mild MR after proximal left circumflex artery (LCx) occlusion (LCx group; n = 7). Addition of a first diagonal branch (D1) occlusion to LCx-MI (LCx + D1 group; n = 7) resulted in moderate to severe MR development 1 mo post-MI. LCx + D1 animals had lower longitudinal strain compared with the LCx group, whereas circumferential strain and LV rotation did not differ significantly. Posterolateral annular displacement toward the apex was significantly reduced in LCx + D1 animals, whereas the septal annular displacement was similar, suggesting an asymmetric mitral annular plane excursion in the LCx + D1 group. To exclude the contribution of papillary muscle infarction in MR development in our model, three pigs underwent obtuse marginal branch + D1 occlusion. None of these pigs developed significant MR after 1 mo. In conclusion, reduced longitudinal contraction contributes to the development of ischemic MR in a large posterior MI. NEW & NOTEWORTHY In this study, using our unique swine models of different-sized myocardial infarction, we showed, for the first time, that reduced longitudinal contraction contributes to the development of ischemic mitral regurgitation in a large posterior myocardial infarction. Our study adds new insights into the mechanisms of ischemic mitral regurgitation pathophysiology.

Nuclear Pores Regulate Muscle Development and Maintenance by Assembling a Localized Mef2C Complex

Nuclear pore complexes (NPCs) are multiprotein channels connecting the nucleus with the cytoplasm. NPCs have been shown to have tissue-specific composition, suggesting that their function can be specialized. However, the physiological roles of NPC composition changes and their impacts on cellular processes remain unclear. Here we show that the addition of the Nup210 nucleoporin to NPCs during myoblast differentiation results in assembly of an Mef2C transcriptional complex required for efficient expression of muscle structural genes and microRNAs. We show that this NPC-localized complex is essential for muscle growth, myofiber maturation, and muscle cell survival and that alterations in its activity result in muscle degeneration. Our findings suggest that NPCs regulate the activity of functional gene groups by acting as scaffolds that promote the local assembly of tissue-specific transcription complexes and show how nuclear pore composition changes can be exploited to regulate gene expression at the nuclear periphery.

Non-invasive electromyographic estimation of motor unit number in the external anal sphincter of the rat

AIMS

The external anal sphincter (EAS) is essential for maintaining fecal continence. Neurological disorders or traumatic injuries to muscle and nervous systems could lead to EAS denervation. Currently, there are no techniques available to document global innervation changes in the EAS in vivo. The aim of this study was to develop a novel approach to non-invasively estimate the number of functioning motor units (MUs) in the EAS and validate with immunofluorescent techniques in rats.

METHODS

Intra-rectal surface electromyography (EMG) signals of the EAS, induced by a series of intra-vaginally delivered pudendal nerve stimulations with different intensities, were recorded. Variation in EMG responses at different intensities was used to estimate the value of a single motor unit potential (SMUP) in order to perform the proposed EAS motor unit number estimation (MUNE) approach. The EAS MUNE was tested in 12 female Sprague-Dawley rats, and validated by comparing against the EAS myofiber counting results achieved by performing immunostaining of acetylcholine receptors in 7 of the 12 rats.

RESULTS

The mean MU number was 35 ± 9, with an averaged SMUP size of 52.49 ± 20.39 μV. The mean number of successfully identified myofibers was 652.7 ± 130.6 myofiber/EAS. Significance of linear regression between the immunofluorescent results and the MUNE was confirmed (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study represents the first effort to non-invasively assess the innervation of the EAS in vivo using the rat as a pre-clinical model. This approach can potentially enable future clinical applications for advanced diagnosis and treatment of neurogenic EAS disorders.

Neuromuscular adaptability of male and female rats to muscle unloading

Previously, it has been shown that following muscle unloading, males and females experience different maladaptations in neuromuscular function. As a follow-up, the present investigation sought to determine if male and female neuromuscular systems demonstrated similar, or disparate morphological adaptations to muscle unloading. Twenty young adult male, and 20 young adult female rats were randomly assigned to one of two treatment protocols: muscle unloading, or control conditions. Following the 2-week intervention period, immunofluorescent procedures were used to quantify pre- and post-synaptic features of neuromuscular junctions (NMJs), and to assess myofiber profiles (size and fiber type composition) of the soleus, plantaris, and EDL muscles. A 2-way ANOVA with main effects for sex and treatment was then used to identify statistically significant (p ≤ .05) differences among structural parameters. Analysis of NMJs showed a consistent lack of differences between males and females. Overall, NMJs were also found to be resistant to the effects of unloading. When examining myofiber profiles, however, male myofibers were revealed to be significantly larger than female ones in each of the muscles examined. Unloading resulted in significant myofiber atrophy only in the primarily weight-bearing soleus muscle. Only the EDL showed unloading-induced differences in myofiber type distribution (Type II → I). These data indicate that different components of the neuromuscular system (NMJs, myofibers) respond uniquely to unloading, and that sex affects myofiber type profiles, but not NMJs. Moreover, it appears that only muscles that have their habitual activity patterns disturbed by unloading (i.e., the soleus, adapt to that intervention).

In Vitro Differentiation of Mature Myofibers for Live Imaging

Skeletal muscles are composed of myofibers, the biggest cells in the mammalian body and one of the few syncytia. How the complex and evolutionarily conserved structures that compose it are assembled remains under investigation. Their size and physiological features often constrain manipulation and imaging applications. The culture of immortalized cell lines is widely used, but it can only replicate the early steps of differentiation. Here, we describe a protocol that enables easy genetic manipulation of myofibers originating from primary mouse myoblasts. After one week of differentiation, the myofibers display contractility, aligned sarcomeres and triads, as well as peripheral nuclei. The entire differentiation process can be followed by live imaging or immunofluorescence. This system combines the advantages of the existing ex vivo and in vitro protocols. The possibility of easy and efficient transfection as well as the ease of access to all differentiation stages broadens the potential applications. Myofibers can subsequently be used not only to address relevant developmental and cell biology questions, but also to reproduce muscle disease phenotypes for clinical applications.