The regulation of muscle glycogen: the granule and its proteins

Does AMPK bind glycogen in skeletal muscle or is the relationship correlative?

Since its discovery over five decades ago, an emphasis on better understanding the structure and functional role of AMPK has been prevalent. In that time, the role of AMPK as a heterotrimeric enzyme that senses the energy state of various cell types has been established. Skeletal muscle is a dynamic, plastic tissue that adapts to both functional and metabolic demands of the human body, such as muscle contraction or exercise. With a deliberate focus on AMPK in skeletal muscle, this review places a physiological lens to the association of AMPK and glycogen that has been established biochemically. It discusses that, to date, no in vivo association of AMPK with glycogen has been shown and this is not altered with interventions, either by physiological or biochemical utilisation of glycogen in skeletal muscle. The reason for this is likely due to the persistent phosphorylation of Thr148 in the β-subunit of AMPK which prevents AMPK from binding to carbohydrate domains. This review presents the correlative data that suggests AMPK senses glycogen utilisation through a direct interaction with glycogen, the biochemical data showing that AMPK can bind carbohydrate in vitro, and highlights that in a physiological setting of rodent skeletal muscle, AMPK does not directly bind to glycogen.

Defect in degradation of glycogenin-exposed residual glycogen in lysosomes is the fundamental pathomechanism of Pompe disease

Pompe disease is a lysosomal storage disorder that preferentially affects muscles, and it is caused by GAA mutation coding acid alpha-glucosidase in lysosome and glycophagy deficiency. While the initial pathology of Pompe disease is glycogen accumulation in lysosomes, the special role of the lysosomal pathway in glycogen degradation is not fully understood. Hence, we investigated the characteristics of accumulated glycogen and the mechanism underlying glycophagy disturbance in Pompe disease. Skeletal muscle specimens were obtained from the affected sites of patients and mouse models with Pompe disease. Histological analysis, immunoblot analysis, immunofluorescence assay, and lysosome isolation were utilized to analyze the characteristics of accumulated glycogen. Cell culture, lentiviral infection, and the CRISPR/Cas9 approach were utilized to investigate the regulation of glycophagy accumulation. We demonstrated residual glycogen, which was distinguishable from mature glycogen by exposed glycogenin and more α-amylase resistance, accumulated in the skeletal muscle of Pompe disease. Lysosome isolation revealed glycogen-free glycogenin in wild type mouse lysosomes and variously sized glycogenin in Gaa-/- mouse lysosomes. Our study identified that a defect in the degradation of glycogenin-exposed residual glycogen in lysosomes was the fundamental pathological mechanism of Pompe disease. Meanwhile, glycogenin-exposed residual glycogen was absent in other glycogen storage diseases caused by cytoplasmic glycogenolysis deficiencies. In vitro, the generation of residual glycogen resulted from cytoplasmic glycogenolysis. Notably, the inhibition of glycogen phosphorylase led to a reduction in glycogenin-exposed residual glycogen and glycophagy accumulations in cellular models of Pompe disease. Therefore, the lysosomal hydrolysis pathway played a crucial role in the degradation of residual glycogen into glycogenin, which took place in tandem with cytoplasmic glycogenolysis. These findings may offer a novel substrate reduction therapeutic strategy for Pompe disease. © 2024 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.

Fluoride as a Potential Repressor of Glycogen Metabolism in Skeletal Muscle Cell Line CCL136

The exposure of humans to fluorine is connected with its presence in the air, food and water. It is well known that fluorides even at a low concentration but with long time exposure accumulate in the body and lead to numerous metabolic disorders. Fluoride is recognised as a factor modulating the energy metabolism of cells. This interaction is of particular importance in muscle cells, which are cells with high metabolic activity related to the metabolism of glucose and glycogen. In someone suffering from chronic fluoride poisoning, frequent symptoms are chronic fatigue not relieved by extra sleep or rest, muscular weakness, muscle spasms, involuntary twitching. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of fluorine at concentrations determined in blood of people environmentally exposed to fluorides on activity and expression of enzymes taking part in metabolism of muscle glycogen. CCL136 cells were cultured under standard conditions with the addition of NaF. The amount of ATP produced by the cells was determined using the HPLC method, the amount and expression of genes responsible for glycogen metabolism using WB and RT PCR methods and the amount of glycogen in cells using the fluorimetric and PAS methods. It has been shown that in CCL136 cells exposed to 1, 3 and 10 μM NaF there is a change in the energy state and expression pattern of enzymes involved in the synthesis and breakdown of glycogen. It was observed that NaF caused a decrease in ATP content in CCL136 cells. Fluoride exposure also increased glycogen deposition. These changes were accompanied by a decrease in gene expression and the level of enzymatic proteins related to glycogen metabolism: glycogen synthase, glycogen synthase kinase and glycogen phosphorylase. The results obtained shed new light on the molecular mechanisms by which fluoride acts as an environmental toxin.

Dynamics of the Glycogen β-Particle Number in Rat Hepatocytes during Glucose Refeeding

Glycogen is an easily accessible source of energy for various processes. In hepatocytes, it can be found in the form of individual molecules (β-particles) and their agglomerates (α-particles). The glycogen content in hepatocytes depends on the physiological state and can vary due to the size and number of the particles. Using biochemical, cytofluorometric, interferometric and morphometric methods, the number of β-particles in rat hepatocytes was determined after 48 h of fasting at different time intervals after glucose refeeding. It has been shown that after starvation, hepatocytes contain ~1.6 × 10⁸ β-particles. During refeeding, their number of hepatocytes gradually increases and reaches a maximum (~5.9 × 10⁸) at 45 min after glucose administration, but then quickly decreases. The data obtained suggest that in cells there is a continuous synthesis and degradation of particles, and at different stages of life, one or another process predominates. It has been suggested that in the course of glycogenesis, pre-existing β-particles are replaced by those formed de novo. The main contribution to the deposition of glycogen is made by an increase in the glucose residue number in its molecules. The average diameter of β-particles of glycogen during glycogenesis increases from ~11 nm to 21 nm.

Sesamol counteracts on metabolic disorders of middle-aged alimentary obese mice through regulating skeletal muscle glucose and lipid metabolism

Background

Globally, obesity is a significant public problem, especially when aging. Sesamol, a phenolic lignan present in sesame seeds, might have a positive effect on high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity associated with aging.

Objective

The purpose of current research study was to explore salutary effects and mechanisms of sesamol in treating alimentary obesity and associated metabolic syndrome in middle-aged mice.

Methods

C57BL/6J mice aged 4–6 weeks and 6–8 months were assigned to the young normal diet group, middle-aged normal diet group, middle-aged HFD group, and middle-aged HFD + sesamol group. At the end of experiment, glucose tolerance test and insulin tolerance test were performed; the levels of lipids and oxidative stress-related factors in the serum and skeletal muscle were detected using chemistry reagent kits; lipid accumulation in skeletal muscle was observed by oil red O staining; the expressions of muscular glucose and lipid metabolism associated proteins were measured by Western blotting.

Results

Sesamol decreased the body weight and alleviated obesity-associated metabolism syndrome in middle-aged mice, such as glucose intolerance, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and oxidative stress. Moreover, muscular metabolic disorders were attenuated after treatment with sesamol. It increased the expression of glucose transporter type-4 and down-regulated the protein levels of pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase isozyme 4, implying the increase of glucose uptake and oxidation. Meanwhile, sesamol decreased the expression of sterol regulatory element binding protein 1c and up-regulated the phosphorylation of hormone-sensitive lipase and the level of carnitine palmityl transferase 1α, which led to the declined lipogenesis and the increased lipolysis and lipid oxidation. In addition, the SIRT1/AMPK signaling pathway was triggered by sesamol, from which it is understood how sesamol enhances glucose and lipid metabolism.

Conclusions

Sesamol counteracts on metabolic disorders of middle-aged alimentary obese mice through regulating skeletal muscle glucose and lipid metabolism, which might be associated with the stimulation of the SIRT1/AMPK pathway.

Peak week recommendations for bodybuilders: an evidence based approach

Bodybuilding is a competitive endeavor where a combination of muscle size, symmetry, "conditioning" (low body fat levels), and stage presentation are judged. Success in bodybuilding requires that competitors achieve their peak physique during the day of competition. To this end, competitors have been reported to employ various peaking interventions during the final days leading to competition. Commonly reported peaking strategies include altering exercise and nutritional regimens, including manipulation of macronutrient, water, and electrolyte intake, as well as consumption of various dietary supplements. The primary goals for these interventions are to maximize muscle glycogen content, minimize subcutaneous water, and reduce the risk abdominal bloating to bring about a more aesthetically pleasing physique. Unfortunately, there is a dearth of evidence to support the commonly reported practices employed by bodybuilders during peak week. Hence, the purpose of this article is to critically review the current literature as to the scientific support for pre-contest peaking protocols most commonly employed by bodybuilders and provide evidence-based recommendations as safe and effective strategies on the topic.

Muscle Glycogen Metabolism and High-Intensity Exercise Performance: A Narrative Review

Muscle glycogen is the main substrate during high-intensity exercise and large reductions can occur after relatively short durations. Moreover, muscle glycogen is stored heterogeneously and similarly displays a heterogeneous and fiber-type specific depletion pattern with utilization in both fast- and slow-twitch fibers during high-intensity exercise, with a higher degradation rate in the former. Thus, depletion of individual fast- and slow-twitch fibers has been demonstrated despite muscle glycogen at the whole-muscle level only being moderately lowered. In addition, muscle glycogen is stored in specific subcellular compartments, which have been demonstrated to be important for muscle function and should be considered as well as global muscle glycogen availability. In the present review, we discuss the importance of glycogen metabolism for single and intermittent bouts of high-intensity exercise and outline possible underlying mechanisms for a relationship between muscle glycogen and fatigue during these types of exercise. Traditionally this relationship has been attributed to a decreased ATP resynthesis rate due to inadequate substrate availability at the whole-muscle level, but emerging evidence points to a direct coupling between muscle glycogen and steps in the excitation-contraction coupling including altered muscle excitability and calcium kinetics.

Hallmarks of oxidative stress in the livers of aged mice with mild glycogen branching enzyme deficiency

Glycogen branching enzyme (GBE1) introduces branching points in the glycogen molecule during its synthesis. Pathogenic GBE1 gene mutations lead to glycogen storage disease type IV (GSD IV), which is characterized by excessive intracellular accumulation of abnormal, poorly branched glycogen in affected tissues and organs, mostly in the liver. Using heterozygous Gbe1 knock-out mice (Gbe1^+/-), we analyzed the effects of moderate GBE1 deficiency on oxidative stress in the liver. The livers of aged Gbe1^+/- mice (22 months old) had decreased GBE1 protein levels, which caused a mild decrease in the degree of glycogen branching, but did not affect the tissue glycogen content. GBE1 deficiency was accompanied by increased protein carbonylation and elevated oxidation of the glutathione pool, indicating the existence of oxidative stress. Furthermore, we have observed increased levels of glutathione peroxidase and decreased activity of respiratory complex I in Gbe1^+/- livers. Our data indicate that even mild changes in the degree of glycogen branching, which did not lead to excessive glycogen accumulation, may have broader effects on cellular bioenergetics and redox homeostasis. In young animals cellular homeostatic mechanisms are able to counteract those changes, while in aged tissues the changes may lead to increased oxidative stress.

Targeting Pathogenic Lafora Bodies in Lafora Disease Using an Antibody-Enzyme Fusion

Lafora disease (LD) is a fatal childhood epilepsy caused by recessive mutations in either the EPM2A or EPM2B gene. A hallmark of LD is the intracellular accumulation of insoluble polysaccharide deposits known as Lafora bodies (LBs) in the brain and other tissues. In LD mouse models, genetic reduction of glycogen synthesis eliminates LB formation and rescues the neurological phenotype. Therefore, LBs have become a therapeutic target for ameliorating LD. Herein, we demonstrate that human pancreatic α-amylase degrades LBs. We fused this amylase to a cell-penetrating antibody fragment, and this antibody-enzyme fusion (VAL-0417) degrades LBs in vitro and dramatically reduces LB loads in vivo in Epm2a-/- mice. Using metabolomics and multivariate analysis, we demonstrate that VAL-0417 treatment of Epm2a-/- mice reverses the metabolic phenotype to a wild-type profile. VAL-0417 is a promising drug for the treatment of LD and a putative precision therapy platform for intractable epilepsy.

Differential glycogen utilization in shark acid- and base-regulatory gill cells

Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase (NKA)- and vacuolar H⁺-ATPase (VHA)-rich cells in shark gills secrete excess acid and base, respectively, to seawater to maintain blood acid-base homeostasis. Both cell types are rich in mitochondria, indicating high ATP demand; however, their metabolic fuel is unknown. Here, we report that NKA- and VHA-rich cells have large glycogen stores. Glycogen abundance in NKA-rich cells was lower in starved sharks compared with 24 h post-fed sharks, reflecting higher energy demand for acid secretion during normal activity and glycogen replenishment during the post-feeding period. Conversely, glycogen abundance in VHA-rich cells was high in starved sharks and it became depleted post-feeding. Furthermore, inactive cells with cytoplasmic VHA had large glycogen stores and active cells with basolateral VHA had depleted glycogen stores. These results indicate that glycogen is a main energy source in both NKA- and VHA-rich cells, and point to differential energy use associated with net acid and net base secretion, respectively.

Brain Glycogen Structure and Its Associated Proteins: Past, Present and Future

This chapter reviews the history of glycogen-related research and discusses in detail the structure, regulation, chemical properties and subcellular distribution of glycogen and its associated proteins, with particular focus on these aspects in brain tissue.

Interactive Roles for AMPK and Glycogen from Cellular Energy Sensing to Exercise Metabolism

The AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is a heterotrimeric complex with central roles in cellular energy sensing and the regulation of metabolism and exercise adaptations. AMPK regulatory β subunits contain a conserved carbohydrate-binding module (CBM) that binds glycogen, the major tissue storage form of glucose. Research over the past two decades has revealed that the regulation of AMPK is impacted by glycogen availability, and glycogen storage dynamics are concurrently regulated by AMPK activity. This growing body of research has uncovered new evidence of physical and functional interactive roles for AMPK and glycogen ranging from cellular energy sensing to the regulation of whole-body metabolism and exercise-induced adaptations. In this review, we discuss recent advancements in the understanding of molecular, cellular, and physiological processes impacted by AMPK-glycogen interactions. In addition, we appraise how novel research technologies and experimental models will continue to expand the repertoire of biological processes known to be regulated by AMPK and glycogen. These multidisciplinary research advances will aid the discovery of novel pathways and regulatory mechanisms that are central to the AMPK signaling network, beneficial effects of exercise and maintenance of metabolic homeostasis in health and disease.

Spatial Structure of Glycogen Molecules in Cells

Glycogen is a strongly branched polymer of α-D-glucose, with glucose residues in the linear chains linked by 1→4-bonds (~93% of the total number of bonds) and with branching after every 4-8 residues formed by 1→6-glycosidic bonds (~7% of the total number of bonds). It is thought currently that a fully formed glycogen molecule (β-particle) with the self-glycosylating protein glycogenin in the center has a spherical shape with diameter of ~42 nm and contains ~ 55,000 glucose residues. The glycogen molecule also includes numerous proteins involved in its synthesis and degradation, as well as proteins performing a carcass function. However, the type and force of bonds connecting these proteins to the polysaccharide moiety of glycogen are significantly different. This review presents the available data on the spatial structure of the glycogen molecule and its changes under various physiological and pathological conditions.

Regulation of Muscle Glycogen Metabolism during Exercise: Implications for Endurance Performance and Training Adaptations

Since the introduction of the muscle biopsy technique in the late 1960s, our understanding of the regulation of muscle glycogen storage and metabolism has advanced considerably. Muscle glycogenolysis and rates of carbohydrate (CHO) oxidation are affected by factors such as exercise intensity, duration, training status and substrate availability. Such changes to the global exercise stimulus exert regulatory effects on key enzymes and transport proteins via both hormonal control and local allosteric regulation. Given the well-documented effects of high CHO availability on promoting exercise performance, elite endurance athletes are typically advised to ensure high CHO availability before, during and after high-intensity training sessions or competition. Nonetheless, in recognition that the glycogen granule is more than a simple fuel store, it is now also accepted that glycogen is a potent regulator of the molecular cell signaling pathways that regulate the oxidative phenotype. Accordingly, the concept of deliberately training with low CHO availability has now gained increased popularity amongst athletic circles. In this review, we present an overview of the regulatory control of CHO metabolism during exercise (with a specific emphasis on muscle glycogen utilization) in order to discuss the effects of both high and low CHO availability on modulating exercise performance and training adaptations, respectively.

Restoration of Muscle Glycogen and Functional Capacity: Role of Post-Exercise Carbohydrate and Protein Co-Ingestion

The importance of post-exercise recovery nutrition has been well described in recent years, leading to its incorporation as an integral part of training regimes in both athletes and active individuals. Muscle glycogen depletion during an initial prolonged exercise bout is a main factor in the onset of fatigue and so the replenishment of glycogen stores may be important for recovery of functional capacity. Nevertheless, nutritional considerations for optimal short-term (3–6 h) recovery remain incompletely elucidated, particularly surrounding the precise amount of specific types of nutrients required. Current nutritional guidelines to maximise muscle glycogen availability within limited recovery are provided under the assumption that similar fatigue mechanisms (i.e., muscle glycogen depletion) are involved during a repeated exercise bout. Indeed, recent data support the notion that muscle glycogen availability is a determinant of subsequent endurance capacity following limited recovery. Thus, carbohydrate ingestion can be utilised to influence the restoration of endurance capacity following exhaustive exercise. One strategy with the potential to accelerate muscle glycogen resynthesis and/or functional capacity beyond merely ingesting adequate carbohydrate is the co-ingestion of added protein. While numerous studies have been instigated, a consensus that is related to the influence of carbohydrate-protein ingestion in maximising muscle glycogen during short-term recovery and repeated exercise capacity has not been established. When considered collectively, carbohydrate intake during limited recovery appears to primarily determine muscle glycogen resynthesis and repeated exercise capacity. Thus, when the goal is to optimise repeated exercise capacity following short-term recovery, ingesting carbohydrate at an amount of ≥1.2 g kg body mass⁻¹·h⁻¹ can maximise muscle glycogen repletion. The addition of protein to carbohydrate during post-exercise recovery may be beneficial under circumstances when carbohydrate ingestion is sub-optimal (≤0.8 g kg body mass⁻¹·h⁻¹) for effective restoration of muscle glycogen and repeated exercise capacity.

The availability of water associated with glycogen during dehydration: a reservoir or raindrop?

PURPOSE

This study evaluated whether glycogen-associated water is a protected entity not subject to normal osmotic homeostasis. An investigation into practical and theoretical aspects of the functionality of this water as a determinant of osmolality, dehydration, and glycogen concentration was undertaken.

METHODS

In vitro experiments were conducted to determine the intrinsic osmolality of glycogen-potassium phosphate mixtures as would be found intra-cellularly at glycogen concentrations of 2% for muscle and 5 and 10% for liver. Protected water would not be available to ionic and osmotic considerations, whereas free water would obey normal osmotic constraints. In addition, the impact of 2 L of sweat loss in situations of muscle glycogen repletion and depletion was computed to establish whether water associated with glycogen is of practical benefit (e.g., to increase "available total body water").

RESULTS

The osmolality of glycogen-potassium phosphate mixtures is predictable at 2% glycogen concentration (predicted 267, measured 265.0 ± 4.7 mOsmol kg^-1) indicating that glycogen-associated water is completely available to all ions and is likely part of the greater osmotic system of the body. At higher glycogen concentrations (5 and 10%), there was a small amount of glycogen water (~ 10-20%) that could be considered protected. However, the majority of the glycogen-associated water behaved to normal osmotic considerations. The theoretical exercise of selective dehydration (2 L) indicated a marginal advantage to components of total body water such as plasma volume (1.57% or 55 mL) when starting exercise glycogen replete.

CONCLUSION

Glycogen-associated water does not appear to be a separate reservoir and is not able to uniquely replete water loss during dehydration.

Lack of liver glycogen causes hepatic insulin resistance and steatosis in mice

Disruption of the Gys2 gene encoding the liver isoform of glycogen synthase generates a mouse strain (LGSKO) that almost completely lacks hepatic glycogen, has impaired glucose disposal, and is pre-disposed to entering the fasted state. This study investigated how the lack of liver glycogen increases fat accumulation and the development of liver insulin resistance. Insulin signaling in LGSKO mice was reduced in liver, but not muscle, suggesting an organ-specific defect. Phosphorylation of components of the hepatic insulin-signaling pathway, namely IRS1, Akt, and GSK3, was decreased in LGSKO mice. Moreover, insulin stimulation of their phosphorylation was significantly suppressed, both temporally and in an insulin dose response. Phosphorylation of the insulin-regulated transcription factor FoxO1 was somewhat reduced and insulin treatment did not elicit normal translocation of FoxO1 out of the nucleus. Fat overaccumulated in LGSKO livers, showing an aberrant distribution in the acinus, an increase not explained by a reduction in hepatic triglyceride export. Rather, when administered orally to fasted mice, glucose was directed toward hepatic lipogenesis as judged by the activity, protein levels, and expression of several fatty acid synthesis genes, namely, acetyl-CoA carboxylase, fatty acid synthase, SREBP1c, chREBP, glucokinase, and pyruvate kinase. Furthermore, using cultured primary hepatocytes, we found that lipogenesis was increased by 40% in LGSKO cells compared with controls. Of note, the hepatic insulin resistance was not associated with increased levels of pro-inflammatory markers. Our results suggest that loss of liver glycogen synthesis diverts glucose toward fat synthesis, correlating with impaired hepatic insulin signaling and glucose disposal.

Glycogen metabolism has a key role in the cancer microenvironment and provides new targets for cancer therapy

Metabolic reprogramming is a hallmark of cancer cells and contributes to their adaption within the tumour microenvironment and resistance to anticancer therapies. Recently, glycogen metabolism has become a recognised feature of cancer cells since it is upregulated in many tumour types, suggesting that it is an important aspect of cancer cell pathophysiology. Here, we provide an overview of glycogen metabolism and its regulation, with a focus on its role in metabolic reprogramming of cancer cells under stress conditions such as hypoxia, glucose deprivation and anticancer treatment. The various methods to detect glycogen in tumours in vivo as well as pharmacological modulators of glycogen metabolism are also reviewed. Finally, we discuss the therapeutic value of targeting glycogen metabolism as a strategy for combinational approaches in cancer treatment.

Muscle glycogen remodeling and glycogen phosphate metabolism following exhaustive exercise of wild type and laforin knockout mice

Glycogen, the repository of glucose in many cell types, contains small amounts of covalent phosphate, of uncertain function and poorly understood metabolism. Loss-of-function mutations in the laforin gene cause the fatal neurodegenerative disorder, Lafora disease, characterized by increased glycogen phosphorylation and the formation of abnormal deposits of glycogen-like material called Lafora bodies. It is generally accepted that the phosphate is removed by the laforin phosphatase. To study the dynamics of skeletal muscle glycogen phosphorylation in vivo under physiological conditions, mice were subjected to glycogen-depleting exercise and then monitored while they resynthesized glycogen. Depletion of glycogen by exercise was associated with a substantial reduction in total glycogen phosphate and the newly resynthesized glycogen was less branched and less phosphorylated. Branching returned to normal on a time frame of days, whereas phosphorylation remained suppressed over a longer period of time. We observed no change in markers of autophagy. Exercise of 3-month-old laforin knock-out mice caused a similar depletion of glycogen but no loss of glycogen phosphate. Furthermore, remodeling of glycogen to restore the basal branching pattern was delayed in the knock-out animals. From these results, we infer that 1) laforin is responsible for glycogen dephosphorylation during exercise and acts during the cytosolic degradation of glycogen, 2) excess glycogen phosphorylation in the absence of laforin delays the normal remodeling of the branching structure, and 3) the accumulation of glycogen phosphate is a relatively slow process involving multiple cycles of glycogen synthesis-degradation, consistent with the slow onset of the symptoms of Lafora disease.

Muscle pathology and whole-body MRI in a polyglucosan myopathy associated with a novel glycogenin-1 mutation

We report a 46-year-old female with late-onset skeletal myopathy affecting proximal limb muscles. Muscle biopsy revealed a polyglucosan myopathy with PAS-positive inclusions predominantly in glycogen-depleted fibers, which were demonstrated as type I fibers by ATPase staining. Whole-body magnetic imaging disclosed that the paravertebral, scapular, and pelvic girdle muscles, the anterior compartment of the arms, and the posterior compartment of the thighs were preferentially involved. Genetic analysis revealed a homozygous novel mutation in exon 6 of the glycogenin-1 gene (GYG1) (c.634C>T, p.His212Tyr). Protein analysis revealed normal levels of glycogenin-1 even before alpha-amylase digestion indicating preserved protein expression but impaired glucosylation. In vitro functional assay demonstrated that this variant impaired the autoglucosylating ability resulting in a non-functional protein. We report a glycogenin-1 related myopathy with a distinct histopathology and unique muscle imaging pattern.

Physiological Consequences of Compartmentalized Acyl-CoA Metabolism

Meeting the complex physiological demands of mammalian life requires strict control of the metabolism of long-chain fatty acyl-CoAs because of the multiplicity of their cellular functions. Acyl-CoAs are substrates for energy production; stored within lipid droplets as triacylglycerol, cholesterol esters, and retinol esters; esterified to form membrane phospholipids; or used to activate transcriptional and signaling pathways. Indirect evidence suggests that acyl-CoAs do not wander freely within cells, but instead, are channeled into specific pathways. In this review, we will discuss the evidence for acyl-CoA compartmentalization, highlight the key modes of acyl-CoA regulation, and diagram potential mechanisms for controlling acyl-CoA partitioning.

McArdle disease: a unique study model in sports medicine

McArdle disease is arguably the paradigm of exercise intolerance in humans. This disorder is caused by inherited deficiency of myophosphorylase, the enzyme isoform that initiates glycogen breakdown in skeletal muscles. Because patients are unable to obtain energy from their muscle glycogen stores, this disease provides an interesting model of study for exercise physiologists, allowing insight to be gained into the understanding of glycogen-dependent muscle functions. Of special interest in the field of muscle physiology and sports medicine are also some specific (if not unique) characteristics of this disorder, such as the so-called 'second wind' phenomenon, the frequent exercise-induced rhabdomyolysis and myoglobinuria episodes suffered by patients (with muscle damage also occurring under basal conditions), or the early appearance of fatigue and contractures, among others. In this article we review the main pathophysiological features of this disorder leading to exercise intolerance as well as the currently available therapeutic possibilities. Patients have been traditionally advised by clinicians to refrain from exercise, yet sports medicine and careful exercise prescription are their best allies at present because no effective enzyme replacement therapy is expected to be available in the near future. As of today, although unable to restore myophosphorylase deficiency, the 'simple' use of exercise as therapy seems probably more promising and practical for patients than more 'complex' medical approaches.

Enhanced Glycogen Storage of a Subcellular Hot Spot in Human Skeletal Muscle during Early Recovery from Eccentric Contractions

Unaccustomed eccentric exercise is accompanied by muscle damage and impaired glucose uptake and glycogen synthesis during subsequent recovery. Recently, it was shown that the role and regulation of glycogen in skeletal muscle are dependent on its subcellular localization, and that glycogen synthesis, as described by the product of glycogen particle size and number, is dependent on the time course of recovery after exercise and carbohydrate availability. In the present study, we investigated the subcellular distribution of glycogen in fibers with high (type I) and low (type II) mitochondrial content during post-exercise recovery from eccentric contractions. Analysis was completed on five male subjects performing an exercise bout consisting of 15 x 10 maximal eccentric contractions. Carbohydrate-rich drinks were subsequently ingested throughout a 48 h recovery period and muscle biopsies for analysis included time points 3, 24 and 48 h post exercise from the exercising leg, whereas biopsies corresponding to prior to and at 48 h after the exercise bout were collected from the non-exercising, control leg. Quantitative imaging by transmission electron microscopy revealed an early (post 3 and 24 h) enhanced storage of intramyofibrillar glycogen (defined as glycogen particles located within the myofibrils) of type I fibers, which was associated with an increase in the number of particles. In contrast, late in recovery (post 48 h), intermyofibrillar, intramyofibrillar and subsarcolemmal glycogen in both type I and II fibers were lower in the exercise leg compared with the control leg, and this was associated with a smaller size of the glycogen particles. We conclude that in the carbohydrate-supplemented state, the effect of eccentric contractions on glycogen metabolism depends on the subcellular localization, muscle fiber’s oxidative capacity, and the time course of recovery. The early enhanced storage of intramyofibrillar glycogen after the eccentric contractions may entail important implications for muscle function and fatigue resistance.

Rat skeletal muscle glycogen degradation pathways reveal differential association of glycogen-related proteins with glycogen granules

Glycogenin, glycogen-debranching enzyme (GDE) and glycogen phosphorylase (GP) are important enzymes that contribute to glycogen particle metabolism. In Long-Evans Hooded rat whole muscle homogenates prepared from extensor digitorum longus (EDL, fast-twitch) and soleus (SOL, oxidative, predominantly slow twitch), it was necessary to include α-amylase, which releases glucosyl units from glycogen, to detect glycogenin but not GDE or GP. Up to ∼12 % of intramuscular glycogen pool was broken down using either in vitro electrical stimulation or leaving muscle at room temperature >3 h (delayed, post-mortem). Electrical stimulation did not reveal glycogenin unless α-amylase was added, although in post-mortem muscle ∼50 and ∼30 % of glycogenin in EDL and SOL muscles, respectively, was detected compared to the amount detected with α-amylase treatment. Single muscle fibres were dissected from fresh or post-mortem EDL muscles, mechanically skinned to remove surface membrane and the presence of glycogenin, GDE and GP as freely diffusible proteins (i.e. cytoplasmic localization) compared by Western blotting. Diffusibility of glycogenin (∼20 %) and GP (∼60 %) was not different between muscles, although GDE increased from ∼15 % diffusible in fresh muscle to ∼60 % in post-mortem muscle. Under physiologically relevant circumstances, in rat muscle and within detection limits: (1) The total cellular pool of glycogenin is always associated with glycogen granules, (2) GDE is associated with glycogen granules with over half the total pool associated with the outer tiers of glycogen, (3) GP is only ever weakly associated with glycogen granules and (4) addition of α-amylase is necessary in order to detect glycogenin, but not GDE or GP.

Acid hydrolysis and molecular density of phytoglycogen and liver glycogen helps understand the bonding in glycogen α (composite) particles

Phytoglycogen (from certain mutant plants) and animal glycogen are highly branched glucose polymers with similarities in structural features and molecular size range. Both appear to form composite α particles from smaller β particles. The molecular size distribution of liver glycogen is bimodal, with distinct α and β components, while that of phytoglycogen is monomodal. This study aims to enhance our understanding of the nature of the link between liver-glycogen β particles resulting in the formation of large α particles. It examines the time evolution of the size distribution of these molecules during acid hydrolysis, and the size dependence of the molecular density of both glucans. The monomodal distribution of phytoglycogen decreases uniformly in time with hydrolysis, while with glycogen, the large particles degrade significantly more quickly. The size dependence of the molecular density shows qualitatively different shapes for these two types of molecules. The data, combined with a quantitative model for the evolution of the distribution during degradation, suggest that the bonding between β into α particles is different between phytoglycogen and liver glycogen, with the formation of a glycosidic linkage for phytoglycogen and a covalent or strong non-covalent linkage, most probably involving a protein, for glycogen as most likely. This finding is of importance for diabetes, where α-particle structure is impaired.

Improving size-exclusion chromatography separation for glycogen

Glycogen is a hyperbranched glucose polymer comprised of glycogen β particles, which can also form much larger composite α particles. The recent discovery using size-exclusion chromatography (SEC) that fewer, smaller, α particles are found in diabetic-mouse liver compared to healthy mice highlights the need to achieve greater accuracy in the size separation methods used to analyze α and β particles. While past studies have used dimethyl sulfoxide as the SEC eluent to analyze the molecular size and structure of native glycogen, an aqueous eluent has not been rigorously tested and compared with dimethyl sulfoxide. The conditions for SEC of pig-liver glycogen, phytoglycogen and oyster glycogen were optimized by comparing two different eluents, aqueous 50 mM NH₄NO₃/0.02% NaN₃ and dimethyl sulfoxide/0.5% LiBr, run through different column materials and pore sizes at various flow rates. The aqueous system gave distinct size separation of α- and β-particle peaks, allowing for a more detailed and quantitative analysis and comparison between liver glycogen samples. This greater resolution has also revealed key differences between the structure of liver glycogen and phytoglycogen.

The Molecular Size Distribution of Glycogen and its Relevance to Diabetes

Glycogen is a highly branched polymer of glucose, functioning as a blood-glucose buffer. It comprises relatively small β-particles, which may be joined as larger aggregate α-particles. The size distributions from size-exclusion chromatography (SEC, also known as GPC) of liver glycogen from non-diabetic and diabetic mice show that diabetic mice have impaired α-particle formation, shedding new light on diabetes. SEC data also suggest the type of bonding holding β-particles together in α-particles. SEC characterisation of liver glycogen at various time points in a day/night cycle indicates that liver glycogen is initially synthesised as β-particles, and then joined by an unknown process to form α-particles. These α-particles are more resistant to degradation, presumably because of their lower surface area-to-volume ratio. These findings have important implications for new drug targets for diabetes management.

Muscle glycogen synthase isoform is responsible for testicular glycogen synthesis: glycogen overproduction induces apoptosis in male germ cells

Glycogen is the main source of glucose for many biological events. However, this molecule may have other functions, including those that have deleterious effects on cells. The rate-limiting enzyme in glycogen synthesis is glycogen synthase (GS). It is encoded by two genes, GYS1, expressed in muscle (muscle glycogen synthase, MGS) and other tissues, and GYS2, primarily expressed in liver (liver glycogen synthase, LGS). Expression of GS and its activity have been widely studied in many tissues. To date, it is not clear which GS isoform is responsible for glycogen synthesis and the role of glycogen in testis. Using RT-PCR, Western blot and immunofluorescence, we have detected expression of MGS but not LGS in mice testis during development. We have also evaluated GS activity and glycogen storage at different days after birth and we show that both GS activity and levels of glycogen are higher during the first days of development. Using RT-PCR, we have also shown that malin and laforin are expressed in testis, key enzymes for regulation of GS activity. These proteins form an active complex that regulates MGS by poly-ubiquitination in both Sertoli cell and male germ cell lines. In addition, PTG overexpression in male germ cell line triggered apoptosis by caspase3 activation, proposing a proapoptotic role of glycogen in testis. These findings suggest that GS activity and glycogen synthesis in testis could be regulated and a disruption of this process may be responsible for the apoptosis and degeneration of seminiferous tubules and possible cause of infertility.

Localisation of AMPK γ subunits in cardiac and skeletal muscles

The trimeric protein AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is an important sensor of energetic status and cellular stress, and mutations in genes encoding two of the regulatory γ subunits cause inherited disorders of either cardiac or skeletal muscle. AMPKγ2 mutations cause hypertrophic cardiomyopathy with glycogen deposition and conduction abnormalities; mutations in AMPKγ3 result in increased skeletal muscle glycogen. In order to gain further insight into the roles of the different γ subunits in muscle and into possible disease mechanisms, we localised the γ2 and γ3 subunits, along with the more abundant γ1 subunit, by immunofluorescence in cardiomyocytes and skeletal muscle fibres. The predominant cardiac γ2 variant, γ2-3B, gave a striated pattern in cardiomyocytes, aligning with the Z-disk but with punctate staining similar to T-tubule (L-type Ca²⁺ channel) and sarcoplasmic reticulum (SERCA2) markers. In skeletal muscle fibres AMPKγ3 localises to the I band, presenting a uniform staining that flanks the Z-disk, also coinciding with the position of Ca²⁺ influx in these muscles. The localisation of γ2-3B- and γ3-containing AMPK suggests that these trimers may have similar functions in the different muscles. AMPK containing γ2-3B was detected in oxidative skeletal muscles which had low expression of γ3, confirming that these two regulatory subunits may be co-ordinately regulated in response to metabolic requirements. Compartmentalisation of AMPK complexes is most likely dependent on the regulatory γ subunit and this differential localisation may direct substrate selection and specify particular functional roles.

Muscle glycogen stores and fatigue

  Studies performed at the beginning of the last century revealed the importance of carbohydrate as a fuel during exercise, and the importance of muscle glycogen on performance has subsequently been confirmed in numerous studies. However, the link between glycogen depletion and impaired muscle function during fatigue is not well understood and a direct cause-and-effect relationship between glycogen and muscle function remains to be established. The use of electron microscopy has revealed that glycogen is not homogeneously distributed in skeletal muscle fibres, but rather localized in distinct pools. Furthermore, each glycogen granule has its own metabolic machinery with glycolytic enzymes and regulating proteins. One pool of such glycogenolytic complexes is localized within the myofibrils in close contact with key proteins involved in the excitation-contraction coupling and Ca2+ release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR). We and others have provided experimental evidence in favour of a direct role of decreased glycogen, localized within the myofibrils, for the reduction in SR Ca2+ release during fatigue. This is consistent with compartmentalized energy turnover and distinctly localized glycogen pools being of key importance for SR Ca2+ release and thereby affecting muscle contractility and fatigability.

Loss of neuronatin promotes "browning" of primary mouse adipocytes while reducing Glut1-mediated glucose disposal

Failure of white adipose tissue to appropriately store excess metabolic substrate seems to underpin obesity-associated type 2 diabetes. Encouraging "browning" of white adipose has been suggested as a therapeutic strategy to help dispose of excess stored lipid and ameliorate the resulting insulin resistance. Genetic variation at the DNA locus encoding the novel proteolipid neuronatin has been associated with obesity, and we recently observed that neuronatin expression is reduced in subcutaneous adipose tissue from obese humans. Thus, to explore the function of neuronatin further, we used RNAi to silence its expression in murine primary adipocyte cultures and examined the effects on adipocyte phenotype. We found that primary adipocytes express only the longer isoform of neuronatin. Loss of neuronatin led to increased mitochondrial biogenesis, indicated by greater intensity of MitoTracker Green staining. This was accompanied by increased expression of UCP1 and the key genes in mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation, PGC-1α, Cox8b, and Cox4 in primary subcutaneous white adipocytes, indicative of a "browning" effect. In addition, phosphorylation of AMPK and ACC was increased, suggestive of increased fatty acid utilization. Similar, but less pronounced, effects of neuronatin silencing were also noted in primary brown adipocytes. In contrast, loss of neuronatin caused a reduction in both basal and insulin-stimulated glucose uptake and glycogen synthesis, likely mediated by a reduction in Glut1 protein upon silencing of neuronatin. In contrast, loss of neuronatin had no effect on insulin signaling. In conclusion, neuronatin appears to be a novel regulator of browning and metabolic substrate disposal in white adipocytes.

Physiological aspects of the subcellular localization of glycogen in skeletal muscle

Glucose is stored in skeletal muscle fibers as glycogen, a branched-chain polymer observed in electron microscopy images as roughly spherical particles (known as β-particles of 10–45 nm in diameter), which are distributed in distinct localizations within the myofibers and are physically associated with metabolic and scaffolding proteins. Although the subcellular localization of glycogen has been recognized for more than 40 years, the physiological role of the distinct localizations has received sparse attention. Recently, however, studies involving stereological, unbiased, quantitative methods have investigated the role and regulation of these distinct deposits of glycogen. In this report, we review the available literature regarding the subcellular localization of glycogen in skeletal muscle as investigated by electron microscopy studies and put this into perspective in terms of the architectural, topological, and dynamic organization of skeletal muscle fibers. In summary, the distribution of glycogen within skeletal muscle fibers has been shown to depend on the fiber phenotype, individual training status, short-term immobilization, and exercise and to influence both muscle contractility and fatigability. Based on all these data, the available literature strongly indicates that the subcellular localization of glycogen has to be taken into consideration to fully understand and appreciate the role and regulation of glycogen metabolism and signaling in skeletal muscle. A full understanding of these phenomena may prove vital in elucidating the mechanisms that integrate basic cellular events with changing glycogen content.

Regulation of glycogen synthase from mammalian skeletal muscle--a unifying view of allosteric and covalent regulation

It is widely accepted that insufficient insulin-stimulated activation of muscle glycogen synthesis is one of the major components of non-insulin-dependent (type 2) diabetes mellitus. Glycogen synthase, a key enzyme in muscle glycogen synthesis, is extensively regulated, both allosterically (by glucose-6-phosphate, ATP, and others) and covalently (by phosphorylation). Although glycogen synthase has been a topic of intense study for more than 50 years, its kinetic characterization has been confounded by its large number of phosphorylation states. Questions remain regarding the function of glycogen synthase regulation and the relative importance of allosteric and covalent modification in fulfilling this function. In this review, we consider both earlier kinetic studies and more recent site-directed mutagenesis and crystal structure studies in a detailed qualitative discussion of the effects of regulation on the kinetics of glycogen synthase. We propose that both allosteric and covalent modification of glycogen synthase may be described by a Monod-Wyman-Changeux model in terms of apparent changes to L, the equilibrium constant for transition between the T and R conformers. As, with the exception of L, all parameters of this model are independent of the glycogen synthase phosphorylation state, the need to determine kinetic parameters for all possible states is eliminated; only the relationship between a particular state and L must be established. We conclude by suggesting that renewed efforts to characterize the relationship between phosphorylation and the kinetics of glycogen synthase are essential in order to obtain a better quantitative understanding of the function of glycogen synthesis regulation. The model we propose may prove useful in this regard.

Molecular insights into glycogen α-particle formation

Glycogen, a hyperbranched complex glucose polymer, is an intracellular glucose store that provides energy for cellular functions, with liver glycogen involved in blood-glucose regulation. Liver glycogen comprises complex α particles made up of smaller β particles. The recent discovery that these α particles are smaller and fewer in diabetic, compared with healthy, mice highlights the need to elucidate the nature of α-particle formation; this paper tests various possibilities for binding within α particles. Acid hydrolysis effects, examined using dynamic light scattering and size exclusion chromatography, showed that the binding is not simple α-(1→4) or α-(1→6) glycosidic linkages. There was no significant change in α particle size after the addition of various reagents, which disrupt disulfide, protein, and hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions. The results are consistent with proteinaceous binding between β particles in α particles, with the inability of protease to break apart particles being attributed to steric hindrance.

The structure of cardiac glycogen in healthy mice

Transmission electron micrographs of glycogen extracted from healthy mouse hearts reveal aggregate structures around 133 nm in diameter. These structures are similar to, but on average somewhat smaller than, the α-particles of glycogen found in mammalian liver. Like the larger liver glycogens, these new particles in cardiac tissue appear to be aggregates of β-particles. Free β-particles are also present in liver, and are the only type of particle seen in skeletal muscle. They have diameters from 20 to 50 nm. We discuss the number distributions of glycogen particle diameters and the implications for the structure-function relationship of glycogens in these tissues. We point out the possible implications for the study of glycogen storage diseases, and of non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus.

More than a store: regulatory roles for glycogen in skeletal muscle adaptation to exercise

The glycogen content of muscle determines not only our capacity for exercise but also the signaling events that occur in response to exercise. The result of the shift in signaling is that frequent training in a low-glycogen state results in improved fat oxidation during steady-state submaximal exercise. This review will discuss how the amount or localization of glycogen particles can directly or indirectly result in this differential response to training. The key direct effect discussed is carbohydrate binding, whereas the indirect effects include the metabolic shift toward fat oxidation, the increase in catecholamines, and osmotic stress. Although our understanding of the role of glycogen in response to training has expanded exponentially over the past 5 years, there are still many questions remaining as to how stored carbohydrate affects the muscular adaptation to exercise.

Glycogen and its metabolism: some new developments and old themes

Glycogen is a branched polymer of glucose that acts as a store of energy in times of nutritional sufficiency for utilization in times of need. Its metabolism has been the subject of extensive investigation and much is known about its regulation by hormones such as insulin, glucagon and adrenaline (epinephrine). There has been debate over the relative importance of allosteric compared with covalent control of the key biosynthetic enzyme, glycogen synthase, as well as the relative importance of glucose entry into cells compared with glycogen synthase regulation in determining glycogen accumulation. Significant new developments in eukaryotic glycogen metabolism over the last decade or so include: (i) three-dimensional structures of the biosynthetic enzymes glycogenin and glycogen synthase, with associated implications for mechanism and control; (ii) analyses of several genetically engineered mice with altered glycogen metabolism that shed light on the mechanism of control; (iii) greater appreciation of the spatial aspects of glycogen metabolism, including more focus on the lysosomal degradation of glycogen; and (iv) glycogen phosphorylation and advances in the study of Lafora disease, which is emerging as a glycogen storage disease.

Brain glycogen-new perspectives on its metabolic function and regulation at the subcellular level

Glycogen is a complex glucose polymer found in a variety of tissues, including brain, where it is localized primarily in astrocytes. The small quantity found in brain compared to e.g., liver has led to the understanding that brain glycogen is merely used during hypoglycemia or ischemia. In this review evidence is brought forward highlighting what has been an emerging understanding in brain energy metabolism: that glycogen is more than just a convenient way to store energy for use in emergencies—it is a highly dynamic molecule with versatile implications in brain function, i.e., synaptic activity and memory formation. In line with the great spatiotemporal complexity of the brain and thereof derived focus on the basis for ensuring the availability of the right amount of energy at the right time and place, we here encourage a closer look into the molecular and subcellular mechanisms underlying glycogen metabolism. Based on (1) the compartmentation of the interconnected second messenger pathways controlling glycogen metabolism (calcium and cAMP), (2) alterations in the subcellular location of glycogen-associated enzymes and proteins induced by the metabolic status and (3) a sequential component in the intermolecular mechanisms of glycogen metabolism, we suggest that glycogen metabolism in astrocytes is compartmentalized at the subcellular level. As a consequence, the meaning and importance of conventional terms used to describe glycogen metabolism (e.g., turnover) is challenged. Overall, this review represents an overview of contemporary knowledge about brain glycogen and its metabolism and function. However, it also has a sharp focus on what we do not know, which is perhaps even more important for the future quest of uncovering the roles of glycogen in brain physiology and pathology.

Skeletal muscle glycogen content and particle size of distinct subcellular localizations in the recovery period after a high-level soccer match

Whole muscle glycogen levels remain low for a prolonged period following a soccer match. The present study was conducted to investigate how this relates to glycogen content and particle size in distinct subcellular localizations. Seven high-level male soccer players had a vastus lateralis muscle biopsy collected immediately after and 24, 48, 72 and 120 h after a competitive soccer match. Transmission electron microscopy was used to estimate the subcellular distribution of glycogen and individual particle size. During the first day of recovery, glycogen content increased by ~60% in all subcellular localizations, but during the subsequent second day of recovery glycogen content located within the myofibrils (Intramyofibrillar glycogen, a minor deposition constituting 10-15% of total glycogen) did not increase further compared with an increase in subsarcolemmal glycogen (-7 vs. +25%, respectively, P = 0.047). Conversely, from the second to the fifth day of recovery, glycogen content increased (53%) within the myofibrils compared to no change in subsarcolemmal or intermyofibrillar glycogen (P < 0.005). Independent of location, increment in particle size preceded increment in number of particles. Intriguingly, average particle size decreased; however, in the period from 3 to 5 days after the match. These findings suggest that glycogen storage in skeletal muscle is influenced by subcellular localization-specific mechanisms, which account for an increase in number of glycogen particles located within the myofibrils in the period from 2 to 5 days after the soccer match.

Molecular pathogenesis of a new glycogenosis caused by a glycogenin-1 mutation

Glycogenin-1 initiates the glycogen synthesis in skeletal muscle by the autocatalytic formation of a short oligosaccharide at tyrosine 195. Glycogenin-1 catalyzes both the glucose-O-tyrosine linkage and the α1,4 glucosidic bonds linking the glucose molecules in the oligosaccharide. We recently described a patient with glycogen depletion in skeletal muscle as a result of a non-functional glycogenin-1. The patient carried a Thr83Met substitution in glycogenin-1. In this study we have investigated the importance of threonine 83 for the catalytic activity of glycogenin-1. Non-glucosylated glycogenin-1 constructs, with various amino acid substitutions in position 83 and 195, were expressed in a cell-free expression system and autoglucosylated in vitro. The autoglucosylation was analyzed by gel-shift on western blot, incorporation of radiolabeled UDP-(14)C-glucose and nano-liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS). We demonstrate that glycogenin-1 with the Thr83Met substitution is unable to form the glucose-O-tyrosine linkage at tyrosine 195 unless co-expressed with the catalytically active Tyr195Phe glycogenin-1. Our results explain the glycogen depletion in the patient expressing only Thr83Met glycogenin-1 and why heterozygous carriers without clinical symptoms show a small proportion of unglucosylated glycogenin-1.

Towards the minimal amount of exercise for improving metabolic health: beneficial effects of reduced-exertion high-intensity interval training

High-intensity interval training (HIT) has been proposed as a time-efficient alternative to traditional cardiorespiratory exercise training, but is very fatiguing. In this study, we investigated the effects of a reduced-exertion HIT (REHIT) exercise intervention on insulin sensitivity and aerobic capacity. Twenty-nine healthy but sedentary young men and women were randomly assigned to the REHIT intervention (men, n = 7; women, n = 8) or a control group (men, n = 6; women, n = 8). Subjects assigned to the control groups maintained their normal sedentary lifestyle, whilst subjects in the training groups completed three exercise sessions per week for 6 weeks. The 10-min exercise sessions consisted of low-intensity cycling (60 W) and one (first session) or two (all other sessions) brief 'all-out' sprints (10 s in week 1, 15 s in weeks 2-3 and 20 s in the final 3 weeks). Aerobic capacity ([Formula: see text]) and the glucose and insulin response to a 75-g glucose load (OGTT) were determined before and 3 days after the exercise program. Despite relatively low ratings of perceived exertion (RPE 13 ± 1), insulin sensitivity significantly increased by 28% in the male training group following the REHIT intervention (P < 0.05). [Formula: see text] increased in the male training (+15%) and female training (+12%) groups (P < 0.01). In conclusion we show that a novel, feasible exercise intervention can improve metabolic health and aerobic capacity. REHIT may offer a genuinely time-efficient alternative to HIT and conventional cardiorespiratory exercise training for improving risk factors of T2D.

Differential pattern of glycogen accumulation after protein phosphatase 1 glycogen-targeting subunit PPP1R6 overexpression, compared to PPP1R3C and PPP1R3A, in skeletal muscle cells

BACKGROUND

PPP1R6 is a protein phosphatase 1 glycogen-targeting subunit (PP1-GTS) abundant in skeletal muscle with an undefined metabolic control role. Here PPP1R6 effects on myotube glycogen metabolism, particle size and subcellular distribution are examined and compared with PPP1R3C/PTG and PPP1R3A/G(M).

RESULTS

PPP1R6 overexpression activates glycogen synthase (GS), reduces its phosphorylation at Ser-641/0 and increases the extracted and cytochemically-stained glycogen content, less than PTG but more than G(M). PPP1R6 does not change glycogen phosphorylase activity. All tested PP1-GTS-cells have more glycogen particles than controls as found by electron microscopy of myotube sections. Glycogen particle size is distributed for all cell-types in a continuous range, but PPP1R6 forms smaller particles (mean diameter 14.4 nm) than PTG (36.9 nm) and G(M) (28.3 nm) or those in control cells (29.2 nm). Both PPP1R6- and G(M)-derived glycogen particles are in cytosol associated with cellular structures; PTG-derived glycogen is found in membrane- and organelle-devoid cytosolic glycogen-rich areas; and glycogen particles are dispersed in the cytosol in control cells. A tagged PPP1R6 protein at the C-terminus with EGFP shows a diffuse cytosol pattern in glucose-replete and -depleted cells and a punctuate pattern surrounding the nucleus in glucose-depleted cells, which colocates with RFP tagged with the Golgi targeting domain of β-1,4-galactosyltransferase, according to a computational prediction for PPP1R6 Golgi location.

CONCLUSIONS

PPP1R6 exerts a powerful glycogenic effect in cultured muscle cells, more than G(M) and less than PTG. PPP1R6 protein translocates from a Golgi to cytosolic location in response to glucose. The molecular size and subcellular location of myotube glycogen particles is determined by the PPP1R6, PTG and G(M) scaffolding.

PTG depletion removes Lafora bodies and rescues the fatal epilepsy of Lafora disease

Lafora disease is the most common teenage-onset neurodegenerative disease, the main teenage-onset form of progressive myoclonus epilepsy (PME), and one of the severest epilepsies. Pathologically, a starch-like compound, polyglucosan, accumulates in neuronal cell bodies and overtakes neuronal small processes, mainly dendrites. Polyglucosan formation is catalyzed by glycogen synthase, which is activated through dephosphorylation by glycogen-associated protein phosphatase-1 (PP1). Here we remove PTG, one of the proteins that target PP1 to glycogen, from mice with Lafora disease. This results in near-complete disappearance of polyglucosans and in resolution of neurodegeneration and myoclonic epilepsy. This work discloses an entryway to treating this fatal epilepsy and potentially other glycogen storage diseases.

Lafora disease (LD) is a fatal epilepsy that afflicts previously normal teenagers. It is caused by mutations in the EPM2A or EPM2B genes encoding the laforin carbohydrate-binding phosphatase and the malin E3 ubiquitin ligase. LD is the most common neurodegenerative epilepsy of adolescents. Affected children suffer an ordeal lasting 10 years, consisting of escalating seizures, constant body jerking, particularly frightening epileptic visual hallucinations, and later on dementia. They die of massive convulsion. Brain biopsies reveal accumulation of a starch-like compound, polyglucosan, overtaking dendrites and likely causing the disease, and neurodegeneration. Glycogen synthase (GS), the enzyme that forms normal glycogen, is also responsible for synthesizing these polyglucosans. We reasoned that reducing GS activity might prevent polyglucosan formation. Mice deficient of Epm2a replicate LD and are a standard model. Members of our group generated mice deficient of PTG, a protein involved in activating GS. By breeding LD mice with PTG-lacking mice, we generated LD mice lacking the GS-activating effect of PTG. This resulted in a cure. The double knockout mice have almost no polyglucosan, no neurodegeneration, and no seizures. Our work opens an avenue of treatment for this fatal epilepsy, which may also be applicable to other glycogen storage diseases.

Human skeletal muscle glycogen utilization in exhaustive exercise: role of subcellular localization and fibre type

Although glycogen is known to be heterogeneously distributed within skeletal muscle cells, there is presently little information available about the role of fibre types, utilization and resynthesis during and after exercise with respect to glycogen localization. Here, we tested the hypothesis that utilization of glycogen with different subcellular localizations during exhaustive arm and leg exercise differs and examined the influence of fibre type and carbohydrate availability on its subsequent resynthesis. When 10 elite endurance athletes (22 ± 1 years, VO2 max = 68 ± 5 ml kg-1 min-1, mean ± SD) performed one hour of exhaustive arm and leg exercise, transmission electron microscopy revealed more pronounced depletion of intramyofibrillar than of intermyofibrillar and subsarcolemmal glycogen. This phenomenon was the same for type I and II fibres, although at rest prior to exercise, the former contained more intramyofibrillar and subsarcolemmal glycogen than the latter. In highly glycogen-depleted fibres, the remaining small intermyofibrillar and subsarcolemmal glycogen particles were often found to cluster in groupings. In the recovery period, when the athletes received either a carbohydrate-rich meal or only water the impaired resynthesis of glycogen with water alone was associated primarily with intramyofibrillar glycogen. In conclusion, after prolonged high-intensity exercise the depletion of glycogen is dependent on subcellular localization. In addition, the localization of glycogen appears to be influenced by fibre type prior to exercise, as well as carbohydrate availability during the subsequent period of recovery. These findings provide insight into the significance of fibre type-specific compartmentalization of glycogen metabolism in skeletal muscle during exercise and subsequent recovery. .