Life | Special Issue : Feature Studies in Skeletal Muscle Physiology

Research

16 pages, 557 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of High-Intensity Functional Training (HIFT) on the Functional Capacity, Frailty, and Physical Condition of Older Adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Blind Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial

by Yulieth Rivas-Campo, Agustín Aibar-Almazán, Diego Fernando Afanador-Restrepo, Patricia Alexandra García-Garro, Gloria Cecilia Vega-Ávila, Carlos Rodríguez-López, Yolanda Castellote-Caballero, María del Carmen Carcelén-Fraile and María Leyre Lavilla-Lerma

Life 2023, 13(5), 1224; https://doi.org/10.3390/life13051224 - 21 May 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2534

Abstract

Physical exercise has been established as an intervention in the integral approach for the physical, functional, and social health of older adults. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of a high-intensity functional training (HIFT) program on the physical condition [...] Read more.

Physical exercise has been established as an intervention in the integral approach for the physical, functional, and social health of older adults. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of a high-intensity functional training (HIFT) program on the physical condition and functional capacity of an elderly Colombian population with mild cognitive impairment. This research corresponds to a blind randomized controlled clinical trial. A total of 169 men and women aged over 65 years were evaluated and distributed in two groups: the experimental group that received a 12-week HIFT intervention (n = 82) and the control group (n = 87) that received general recommendations on the benefits of physical exercise. The outcome variables included physical condition, assessed using the Senior Fitness battery (SNB); Fried’s frailty phenotype was applied, and gait and balance were assessed using the Tinetti scale. For the functional variables, activities of daily living, instrumental activities of daily living, and advanced activities of daily living were evaluated. All variables were measured pre- and post-intervention. Statistically significant improvements were observed in the IG for gait stability and balance (p < 0.001), as well as for independence in activities of daily living (p = 0.003), and instrumental and advanced activities (p < 0.001). Likewise, greater functionality was found when assessed with the SNB (p < 0.001), except for upper limb strength. The frailty classification did not show changes post-intervention (p = 0.170) nor in the group x time interaction. MANCOVA analysis showed that regardless of gender, health level, age, BMI, cognition, and health level, the HIFT intervention produced better results in functional capacity, balance, and gait (F = 0.173, p < 0.001, Wilks’ λ = 88.231). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Studies in Skeletal Muscle Physiology)

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13 pages, 2271 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Up- and Downregulated Genes after Long-Term Muscle Atrophy Induced by Denervation in Mice Detected Using RNA-Seq

by Shoko Sawano, Misaki Fukushima, Taiki Akasaka, Mako Nakamura, Ryuichi Tatsumi, Yoshihide Ikeuchi and Wataru Mizunoya

Life 2023, 13(5), 1111; https://doi.org/10.3390/life13051111 - 29 Apr 2023

Viewed by 2195

Abstract

Skeletal muscle atrophy occurs rapidly as a result of inactivity. Although there are many reports on changes in gene expression during the early phase of muscle atrophy, the patterns of up-and downregulated gene expression after long-term and equilibrated muscle atrophy are poorly understood. [...] Read more.

Skeletal muscle atrophy occurs rapidly as a result of inactivity. Although there are many reports on changes in gene expression during the early phase of muscle atrophy, the patterns of up-and downregulated gene expression after long-term and equilibrated muscle atrophy are poorly understood. In this study, we comprehensively examined the changes in gene expression in long-term denervated mouse muscles using RNA-Seq. The murine right sciatic nerve was denervated, and the mice were housed for five weeks. The cross-sectional areas of the hind limb muscles were measured using an X-ray CT system 35 days after denervation. After 28 d of denervation, the cross-sectional area of the muscle decreased to approximately 65% of that of the intact left muscle and reached a plateau. Gene expression in the soleus and extensor digitorum longus (EDL) muscles on the 36th day was analyzed using RNA-Seq and validated using RT-qPCR. RNA-Seq analysis revealed that three genes—Adora1, E230016M11Rik, and Gm10718—were upregulated and one gene—Gm20515—was downregulated in the soleus muscle; additionally, four genes—Adora1, E230016M11Rik, Pigh, and Gm15557—were upregulated and one gene—Fzd7—was downregulated in the EDL muscle (FDR < 0.05). Among these genes, E230016M11Rik, one of the long non-coding RNAs, was significantly upregulated in both the muscles. These findings indicate that E230016M11Rik could be a candidate gene for the maintenance of atrophied skeletal muscle size and an atrophic state. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Studies in Skeletal Muscle Physiology)

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16 pages, 3129 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Turmeric Extract on Age-Related Skeletal Muscle Atrophy in Senescence-Accelerated Mice

by Weida Lyu, Marika Kousaka, Huijuan Jia and Hisanori Kato

Life 2023, 13(4), 941; https://doi.org/10.3390/life13040941 - 3 Apr 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2389

Abstract

Muscle atrophy is one of the main causes of sarcopenia—the age-related loss of skeletal muscle. In this study, we investigated the effect of turmeric (Curcuma longa) extract (TE) supplementation on age-related muscle atrophy in a senescence-accelerated mouse model and explored the [...] Read more.

Muscle atrophy is one of the main causes of sarcopenia—the age-related loss of skeletal muscle. In this study, we investigated the effect of turmeric (Curcuma longa) extract (TE) supplementation on age-related muscle atrophy in a senescence-accelerated mouse model and explored the underlying mechanisms. Twenty-six-week-old male, senescence-accelerated mouse resistant (SAMR) mice received the AIN-93G basal diet, while twenty-six-week-old male, senescence-accelerated mouse prone 8 (SAMP8) mice received the AIN-93G basal diet or a 2% TE powder-supplemented diet for ten weeks. Our findings revealed that TE supplementation showed certain effects on ameliorating the decrease in body weight, tibialis anterior weight, and mesenteric fat tissue weight in SAMP8 mice. TE improved gene expression in the glucocorticoid receptor-FoxO signaling pathway in skeletal muscle, including redd1, klf15, foxo1, murf1, and mafbx. Furthermore, TE might have the certain potential on improving the dynamic balance between anabolic and catabolic processes by inhibiting the binding of glucocorticoid receptor or FoxO1 to the glucocorticoid response element or FoxO-binding element in the MuRF1 promoter in skeletal muscle, thereby promoting muscle mass and strength, and preventing muscle atrophy and sarcopenia prevention. Moreover, TE may have reduced mitochondrial damage and maintained cell growth and division by downregulating the mRNA expression of the genes mfn2 and tsc2. Thus, the results indicated TE’s potential for preventing age-related muscle atrophy and sarcopenia. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Studies in Skeletal Muscle Physiology)

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18 pages, 1890 KiB

Open AccessArticle

How to Confuse Motor Control: Passive Muscle Shortening after Contraction in Lengthened Position Reduces the Muscular Holding Stability in the Sense of Adaptive Force

by Frank N. Bittmann, Silas Dech and Laura V. Schaefer

Life 2023, 13(4), 911; https://doi.org/10.3390/life13040911 - 30 Mar 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1426

Abstract

Adaptation to external forces relies on a well-functioning proprioceptive system including muscle spindle afferents. Muscle length and tension control in reaction to external forces is most important regarding the Adaptive Force (AF). This study investigated the effect of different procedures, which are assumed [...] Read more.

Adaptation to external forces relies on a well-functioning proprioceptive system including muscle spindle afferents. Muscle length and tension control in reaction to external forces is most important regarding the Adaptive Force (AF). This study investigated the effect of different procedures, which are assumed to influence the function of muscle spindles, on the AF. Elbow flexors of 12 healthy participants (n = 19 limbs) were assessed by an objectified manual muscle test (MMT) with different procedures: regular MMT, MMT after precontraction (self-estimated 20% MVIC) in lengthened position with passive return to test position (CL), and MMT after CL with a second precontraction in test position (CL-CT). During regular MMTs, muscles maintained their length up to 99.7% ± 1.0% of the maximal AF (AF_max). After CL, muscles started to lengthen at 53.0% ± 22.5% of AF_max. For CL-CT, muscles were again able to maintain the static position up to 98.3% ± 5.5% of AF_max. AFiso_max differed highly significantly between CL vs. CL-CT and regular MMT. CL was assumed to generate a slack of muscle spindles, which led to a substantial reduction of the holding capacity. This was immediately erased by a precontraction in the test position. The results substantiate that muscle spindle sensitivity seems to play an important role for neuromuscular functioning and musculoskeletal stability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Studies in Skeletal Muscle Physiology)

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Review

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21 pages, 1527 KiB

Open AccessReview

Mast Cell Involvement in the Pathogenesis of Selected Musculoskeletal Diseases

by Łukasz Gutowski, Szymon Kanikowski and Dorota Formanowicz

Life 2023, 13(8), 1690; https://doi.org/10.3390/life13081690 - 5 Aug 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2476

Abstract

In recent years, there has been a noteworthy revival of interest in the function of mast cells (MCs) in the human body. It is now acknowledged that MCs impact a wide array of processes beyond just allergies, leading to a shift in research [...] Read more.

In recent years, there has been a noteworthy revival of interest in the function of mast cells (MCs) in the human body. It is now acknowledged that MCs impact a wide array of processes beyond just allergies, leading to a shift in research direction. Unfortunately, some earlier conclusions were drawn from animal models with flawed designs, particularly centered around the receptor tyrosine kinase (Kit) pathway. Consequently, several subsequent findings may have been unreliable. Thus, what is now required is a re-examination of these earlier findings. Nevertheless, the remaining data are fascinating and hold promise for a better comprehension of numerous diseases and the development of more effective therapies. As the field continues to progress, many intriguing issues warrant further investigation and analysis. For instance, exploring the bidirectional action of MCs in rheumatoid arthritis, understanding the extent of MCs’ impact on symptoms associated with Ehlers–Danlos syndrome, and unraveling the exact role of the myofibroblast–mast cell–neuropeptides axis in the joint capsule during post-traumatic contractures are all captivating areas for exploration. Hence, in this review, we summarize current knowledge regarding the influence of MCs on the pathogenesis of selected musculoskeletal diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, spondyloarthritis, psoriatic arthritis, gout, muscle and joint injuries, tendinopathy, heterotopic ossification, and Ehlers–Danlos syndrome. We believe that this review will provide in-depth information that can guide and inspire further research in this area. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Studies in Skeletal Muscle Physiology)

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14 pages, 877 KiB

Open AccessReview

Sarcopenia and Sarcopenic Obesity and Osteoarthritis: A Discussion among Muscles, Fat, Bones, and Aging

by Maria Spanoudaki, Constantinos Giaginis, Maria Mentzelou, Alexia Bisbinas, Evangelos Solovos, Konstantinos Papadopoulos, Ioannis Paliokas, Christiana Zidrou, Antonis Cheimaras, Maria Hassapidou, Athanasios N. Papadopoulos and Sousana K. Papadopoulou

Life 2023, 13(6), 1242; https://doi.org/10.3390/life13061242 - 24 May 2023

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2186

Abstract

Aging is a physical procedure for people and nature. Our aging world is expanding because of the life span extension. Aging has a crucial relationship with our body composition (muscles, bones, and adipose tissue), which is characterized by an increase in fat mass [...] Read more.

Aging is a physical procedure for people and nature. Our aging world is expanding because of the life span extension. Aging has a crucial relationship with our body composition (muscles, bones, and adipose tissue), which is characterized by an increase in fat mass and a gradual decrease in muscle mass and strength and bone density. These alterations affect physical performance and impact quality of life enhancing the risk for non-communicable diseases, immobilization, and disability. As far we know, osteoarthritis of lower limbs, sarcopenic obesity, and muscle mass and/or strength loss are treated separately. However, bones, muscles, adipose tissue, and aging appear to have an interconnection through a dialogue as they talk to each other. Health disorders are coming into the surface when this relationship is disrupted. The aim of our study is to search deeper into this interconnection, so that when adipose tissue increases, we have to take a look into the condition of muscle mass, bone, and connective tissue and vice versa, through the assessment of physical performance. Consequently, the triad muscle-bone-adipose tissue disorders by aging should be treated as a single entity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Studies in Skeletal Muscle Physiology)

13 pages, 1117 KiB

Open AccessReview

Intraoperative Monitoring of Neuromuscular Blockade

by Cyrus Motamed

Life 2023, 13(5), 1184; https://doi.org/10.3390/life13051184 - 15 May 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3878

Abstract

There is a global trend of new guidelines highly recommending quantitative neuromuscular monitoring in the operating room. In fact, it is almost certain that quantitatively monitoring the depth of intraoperative muscle paralysis may permit the rational use of muscle relaxants and avoid some [...] Read more.

There is a global trend of new guidelines highly recommending quantitative neuromuscular monitoring in the operating room. In fact, it is almost certain that quantitatively monitoring the depth of intraoperative muscle paralysis may permit the rational use of muscle relaxants and avoid some of the major related complications, namely postoperative pulmonary complications. A specific culture related to this issue is necessary to integrate quantitative monitoring of muscle relaxants as part of a major monitoring entity in anesthetized patients. For this purpose, it is necessary to fully understand the physiology, pharmacology and concept of monitoring as well as the choice of pharmacological reversal, including the introduction of sugammadex a decade ago. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Studies in Skeletal Muscle Physiology)

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Other

Jump to: Research, Review

13 pages, 1867 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Does an Association among Sarcopenia and Metabolic Risk Factors Exist in People Older Than 65 Years? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies

by María del Carmen Carcelén-Fraile, Agustín Aibar-Almazán, Diego Fernando Afanador-Restrepo, Yulieth Rivas-Campo, Carlos Rodríguez-López, María del Mar Carcelén-Fraile, Yolanda Castellote-Caballero and Fidel Hita-Contreras

Life 2023, 13(3), 648; https://doi.org/10.3390/life13030648 - 26 Feb 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1971

Abstract

Sarcopenia is defined as the generalized and progressive loss of skeletal muscle strength and mass that may be affected by metabolic factors, although this relationship has been poorly studied. The aim of this review and meta-analysis was to analyze the relationship among the [...] Read more.

Sarcopenia is defined as the generalized and progressive loss of skeletal muscle strength and mass that may be affected by metabolic factors, although this relationship has been poorly studied. The aim of this review and meta-analysis was to analyze the relationship among the different metabolic risk factors and sarcopenia in people older than 65 years. Following the PRISMA 2020 guide, we searched for articles that studied the relationship among sarcopenia and metabolic risk factors in adults over 65 years of age, published between 2012 and 2022 in four databases: PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Plus, and CINAHL. A total of 370 articles were identified in the initial search, of which 13 articles were selected for inclusion in this review. It was observed that metabolic risk factors such as Body Mass Index, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, glucose, cholesterol, or triglycerides had a significant association with sarcopenia. There is evidence of the association of different metabolic risk factors with sarcopenia in adults over 65 years of age, so it is necessary to carry out studies that investigate different strategies that reduce the appearance of sarcopenia, and with it, the incidence of metabolic diseases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Studies in Skeletal Muscle Physiology)

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