Medizinische Universität Graz Austria/Österreich - Forschungsportal - Medical University of Graz
Gewählte Publikation:
Jaskolla, T.
MOLECULAR MECHANISMS OF MUSCLE LOSS DURING BEDREST
Humanmedizin; [ Diplomarbeit ] Medical University of Graz; 2014. pp. 81
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- Autor*innen der Med Uni Graz:
- Betreuer*innen:
- Goswami Nandu
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- Abstract:
- Introduction: Bedrest immobilization is known to lead to severe muscle loss. Though bedridden persons have significant muscle loss, it is not yet known why this occurs. This dissertation provides an overview of muscle physiology, molecular biology and immobilization physiology. An in-depth examination of the data obtained during a bedrest campaign of the ESA will be done, with special emphasis on the molecular mechanisms that contribute to muscle atrophy and (dys-) function. The results of this work will be applicable in the areas of immobilization, geriatrics as well as cardiology. Aims and objectives: This dissertation examines the effects of bedrest immobilization on muscle function, with regards to the molecular mechanisms that are involved in muscle loss during bedrest. We tested the hypothesis that muscle function and strength will be affected by the bedrest immobilization and that this will be reflected in the molecular changes that were observed. Methodology: Bedrest immobilization was carried out at MEDES, Toulouse. The 6-degree head down bedrest of 21-days duration was performed on 12 male volunteers with an average age of 34 ± 8 years, an average height of 1.76 ± 6 cm and an average weight of 69.8 ± 8 kg (mean ± SD). The effects of bedrest immobilization on gene expression relevant for skeletal muscle function were examined by comparing pre- and post-bedrest immobilization blood samples. Results: The expression of 9 genes involved in muscle physiology was found to have changed with a fold change = +1.5 or = -1.5. In comparison to pre-bedrest, post-bedrest gene expression of HSD11B1, CNTF, TRIM63, CAV3, and HSPB3 was up regulated while the gene expression of KCNH2, SBF2, NOS1, and GDAP1 was down regulated. These changes were then examined in relation to what is known in the literature regarding muscle function during bedrest immobilization. Conclusions: The results of gene expression related to muscle function are consistent with muscle loss that occurs during immobilization. In the future, examining the time course of these changes may allow us to develop countermeasures at appropriate times, even before the muscle loss can be seen physiologically.