Depletion of resident muscle stem cells negatively impacts running volume, physical function, and muscle fiber hypertrophy in response to lifelong physical activity

Inhibition of p53-MDM2 binding reduces senescent cell abundance and improves the adaptive responses of skeletal muscle from aged mice

Skeletal muscle adaptation to external stimuli, such as regeneration following injury and hypertrophy in response to resistance exercise, are blunted with advanced age. The accumulation of senescent cells, along with defects in myogenic progenitor cell (MPC) proliferation, have been strongly linked as contributing factors to age-associated impairment in muscle adaptation. p53 plays an integral role in all these processes, as upregulation of p53 causes apoptosis in senescent cells and prevents mitotic catastrophe in MPCs from old mice. The goal of this study was to determine if a novel pharmaceutical agent (BI01), which functions by upregulating p53 through inhibition of binding to MDM2, the primary p53 regulatory protein, improves muscle regeneration and hypertrophy in old mice. BI01 effectively reduced the number of senescent cells in vitro but had no effect on MPC survival or proliferation at a comparable dose. Following repeated oral gavage with 2 mg/kg of BI01 (OS) or vehicle (OV), old mice (24 months) underwent unilateral BaCl2 injury in the tibialis anterior (TA) muscle, with PBS injections serving as controls. After 7 days, satellite cell number was higher in the TA of OS compared to OV mice, as was the expression of genes involved in ATP production. By 35 days, old mice treated with BI01 displayed reduced senescent cell burden, enhanced regeneration (higher muscle mass and fiber cross-sectional area) and restoration of muscle function relative to OV mice. To examine the impact of 2 mg/kg BI01 on muscle hypertrophy, the plantaris muscle was subjected to 28 days of mechanical overload (MOV) in OS and OV mice. In response to MOV, OS mice had larger plantaris muscles and muscle fibers than OV mice, particularly type 2b + x fibers, associated with reduced senescent cells. Together our data show that BI01 is an effective senolytic agent that may also augment muscle metabolism to enhance muscle regeneration and hypertrophy in old mice.

Psat1-generated α-ketoglutarate and glutamine promote muscle stem cell activation and regeneration

By satisfying bioenergetic demands, generating biomass, and providing metabolites serving as cofactors for chromatin modifiers, metabolism regulates adult stem cell biology. Here, we report that a branch of glycolysis, the serine biosynthesis pathway (SBP), is activated in regenerating muscle stem cells (MuSCs). Gene inactivation and metabolomics revealed that Psat1, one of the three SBP enzymes, controls MuSC activation and expansion of myogenic progenitors through production of the metabolite α-ketoglutarate (α-KG) and α-KG-generated glutamine. Psat1 ablation resulted in defective expansion of MuSCs and impaired regeneration. Psat1, α-KG, and glutamine were reduced in MuSCs of old mice. α-KG or glutamine re-established appropriate muscle regeneration of adult conditional Psat1 -/- mice and of old mice. These findings contribute insights into the metabolic role of Psat1 during muscle regeneration and suggest α-KG and glutamine as potential therapeutic interventions to ameliorate muscle regeneration during aging.

Functional specialisation and coordination of myonuclei

Myofibres serve as the functional unit for locomotion, with the sarcomere as fundamental subunit. Running the entire length of this structure are hundreds of myonuclei, located at the periphery of the myofibre, juxtaposed to the plasma membrane. Myonuclear specialisation and clustering at the centre and ends of the fibre are known to be essential for muscle contraction, yet the molecular basis of this regionalisation has remained unclear. While the 'myonuclear domain hypothesis' helped explain how myonuclei can independently govern large cytoplasmic territories, novel technologies have provided granularity on the diverse transcriptional programs running simultaneously within the syncytia and added a new perspective on how myonuclei communicate. Building upon this, we explore the critical cellular and molecular sources of transcriptional and functional heterogeneity within myofibres, discussing the impact of intrinsic and extrinsic factors on myonuclear programs. This knowledge provides new insights for understanding muscle development, repair, and disease, but also opens avenues for the development of novel and precise therapeutic approaches.

Satellite cells in the growth and maintenance of muscle

Embryonic skeletal muscle growth is contingent upon a population of somite derived satellite cells, however, the contribution of these cells to early postnatal skeletal muscle growth remains relatively high. As prepubertal postnatal development proceeds, the activity and contribution of satellite cells to skeletal muscle growth diminishes. Eventually, at around puberty, a population of satellite cells escapes terminal commitment, continues to express the paired box transcription factor Pax7, and reside in a quiescent state orbiting the myofiber periphery adjacent to the basal lamina. After adolescence, some satellite cell contributions to muscle maintenance and adaptation occur, however, their necessity is reduced relative to embryonic, early postnatal, and prepubertal growth.

The roles of miRNAs in adult skeletal muscle satellite cells

Satellite cells are bona fide muscle stem cells that are indispensable for successful post-natal muscle growth and regeneration after severe injury. These cells also participate in adult muscle adaptation in several capacities. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are post-transcriptional regulators of mRNA that are implicated in several aspects of stem cell function. There is evidence to suggest that miRNAs affect satellite cell behavior in vivo during development and myogenic progenitor behavior in vitro, but the role of miRNAs in adult skeletal muscle satellite cells is less studied. In this review, we provide evidence for how miRNAs control satellite cell function with emphasis on satellite cells of adult skeletal muscle in vivo. We first outline how miRNAs are indispensable for satellite cell viability and control the phases of myogenesis. Next, we discuss the interplay between miRNAs and myogenic cell redox status, senescence, and communication to other muscle-resident cells during muscle adaptation. Results from recent satellite cell miRNA profiling studies are also summarized. In vitro experiments in primary myogenic cells and cell lines have been invaluable for exploring the influence of miRNAs, but we identify a need for novel genetic tools to further interrogate how miRNAs control satellite cell behavior in adult skeletal muscle in vivo.

Skeletal muscle atrophy, regeneration, and dysfunction in heart failure: Impact of exercise training

This review highlights some established and some more contemporary mechanisms responsible for heart failure (HF)-induced skeletal muscle wasting and weakness. We first describe the effects of HF on the relationship between protein synthesis and degradation rates, which determine muscle mass, the involvement of the satellite cells for continual muscle regeneration, and changes in myofiber calcium homeostasis linked to contractile dysfunction. We then highlight key mechanistic effects of both aerobic and resistance exercise training on skeletal muscle in HF and outline its application as a beneficial treatment. Overall, HF causes multiple impairments related to autophagy, anabolic-catabolic signaling, satellite cell proliferation, and calcium homeostasis, which together promote fiber atrophy, contractile dysfunction, and impaired regeneration. Although both wasting and weakness are partly rescued by aerobic and resistance exercise training in HF, the effects of satellite cell dynamics remain poorly explored.

Lineage tracing of newly accrued nuclei in skeletal myofibers uncovers distinct transcripts and interplay between nuclear populations

Multinucleated skeletal muscle cells have an obligatory need to acquire additional nuclei through fusion with activated skeletal muscle stem cells when responding to both developmental and adaptive growth stimuli. A fundamental question in skeletal muscle biology has been the reason underlying this need for new nuclei in syncytial cells that already harbor hundreds of nuclei. To begin to answer this long-standing question, we utilized nuclear RNA-sequencing approaches and developed a lineage tracing strategy capable of defining the transcriptional state of recently fused nuclei and distinguishing this state from that of pre-existing nuclei. Our findings reveal the presence of conserved markers of newly fused nuclei both during development and after a hypertrophic stimulus in the adult. However, newly fused nuclei also exhibit divergent gene expression that is determined by the myogenic environment to which they fuse. Moreover, accrual of new nuclei through fusion is required for nuclei already resident in adult myofibers to mount a normal transcriptional response to a load-inducing stimulus. We propose a model of mutual regulation in the control of skeletal muscle development and adaptations, where newly fused and pre-existing myonuclear populations influence each other to maintain optimal functional growth.

Crosstalk between Bone and Muscles during Physical Activity

Bone-muscle crosstalk is enabled thanks to the integration of different molecular signals, and it is essential for maintaining the homeostasis of skeletal and muscle tissue. Both the skeletal system and the muscular system perform endocrine activity by producing osteokines and myokines, respectively. These cytokines play a pivotal role in facilitating bone-muscle crosstalk. Moreover, recent studies have highlighted the role of non-coding RNAs in promoting crosstalk between bone and muscle in physiological or pathological conditions. Therefore, positive stimuli or pathologies that target one of the two systems can affect the other system as well, emphasizing the reciprocal influence of bone and muscle. Lifestyle and in particular physical activity influence both the bone and the muscular apparatus by acting on the single system but also by enhancing its crosstalk. Several studies have in fact demonstrated the modulation of circulating molecular factors during physical activity. These molecules are often produced by bone or muscle and are capable of activating signaling pathways involved in bone-muscle crosstalk but also of modulating the response of other cell types. Therefore, in this review we will discuss the effects of physical activity on bone and muscle cells, with particular reference to the biomolecular mechanisms that regulate their cellular interactions.

Scaling of nuclear numbers and their spatial arrangement in skeletal muscle cell size regulation

Many cells display considerable functional plasticity and depend on the regulation of numerous organelles and macromolecules for their maintenance. In large cells, organelles also need to be carefully distributed to supply the cell with essential resources and regulate intracellular activities. Having multiple copies of the largest eukaryotic organelle, the nucleus, epitomizes the importance of scaling gene products to large cytoplasmic volumes in skeletal muscle fibers. Scaling of intracellular constituents within mammalian muscle fibers is, however, poorly understood, but according to the myonuclear domain hypothesis, a single nucleus supports a finite amount of cytoplasm and is thus postulated to act autonomously, causing the nuclear number to be commensurate with fiber volume. In addition, the orderly peripheral distribution of myonuclei is a hallmark of normal cell physiology, as nuclear mispositioning is associated with impaired muscle function. Because underlying structures of complex cell behaviors are commonly formalized by scaling laws and thus emphasize emerging principles of size regulation, the work presented herein offers more of a unified conceptual platform based on principles from physics, chemistry, geometry, and biology to explore cell size-dependent correlations of the largest mammalian cell by means of scaling.

MicroRNA control of the myogenic cell transcriptome and proteome: the role of miR-16

MicroRNAs (miRs) control stem cell biology and fate. Ubiquitously expressed and conserved miR-16 was the first miR implicated in tumorigenesis. miR-16 is low in muscle during developmental hypertrophy and regeneration. It is enriched in proliferating myogenic progenitor cells but is repressed during differentiation. The induction of miR-16 blocks myoblast differentiation and myotube formation, whereas knockdown enhances these processes. Despite a central role for miR-16 in myogenic cell biology, how it mediates its potent effects is incompletely defined. In this investigation, global transcriptomic and proteomic analyses after miR-16 knockdown in proliferating C2C12 myoblasts revealed how miR-16 influences myogenic cell fate. Eighteen hours after miR-16 inhibition, ribosomal protein gene expression levels were higher relative to control myoblasts and p53 pathway-related gene abundance was lower. At the protein level at this same time point, miR-16 knockdown globally upregulated tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle proteins while downregulating RNA metabolism-related proteins. miR-16 inhibition induced specific proteins associated with myogenic differentiation such as ACTA2, EEF1A2, and OPA1. We extend prior work in hypertrophic muscle tissue and show that miR-16 is lower in mechanically overloaded muscle in vivo. Our data collectively point to how miR-16 is implicated in aspects of myogenic cell differentiation. A deeper understanding of the role of miR-16 in myogenic cells has consequences for muscle developmental growth, exercise-induced hypertrophy, and regenerative repair after injury, all of which involve myogenic progenitors.

Resistance and endurance exercise training improves muscle mass and the inflammatory/fibrotic transcriptome in a rhabdomyosarcoma model

BACKGROUND

Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is an aggressive soft tissue sarcoma that most often develops in children. Chemoradiation therapy is a standard treatment modality; however, the detrimental long-term skeletal muscle consequences of this therapy in juvenile cancer survivors include muscle atrophy and fibrosis resulting in decreased physical performance. Using a novel model of murine resistance and endurance exercise training, we investigate its role in preventing the long-term effects of juvenile RMS plus therapy.

METHODS

Four-week-old male (n = 10) and female (n = 10) C57Bl/6J mice were injected with M3-9-M RMS cell into the left gastrocnemius with the right limb serving as an internal control (CON). Mice received a systemic vincristine injection and then five doses of 4.8 Gy of gamma radiation localized to the left hindlimb (RMS + Tx). Mice were then randomly divided into either sedentary (SED) or resistance and endurance exercise training (RET) groups. Changes in exercise performance, body composition, myocellular adaptations and the inflammatory/fibrotic transcriptome were assessed.

RESULTS

RET improved endurance performance (P < 0.0001) and body composition (P = 0.0004) compared to SED. RMS + Tx resulted in significantly lower muscle weight (P = 0.015) and significantly smaller myofibre cross-sectional area (CSA) (P = 0.014). Conversely, RET resulted in significantly higher muscle weight (P = 0.030) and significantly larger Type IIA (P = 0.014) and IIB (P = 0.015) fibre CSA. RMS + Tx resulted in significantly more muscle fibrosis (P = 0.028), which was not prevented by RET. RMS + Tx resulted in significantly fewer mononuclear cells (P < 0.05) and muscle satellite (stem) cells (MuSCs) (P < 0.05) and significantly more immune cells (P < 0.05) than CON. RET resulted in significantly more fibro-adipogenic progenitors (P < 0.05), a trend for more MuSCs (P = 0.076) than SED and significantly more endothelial cells specifically in the RMS + Tx limb. Transcriptomic changes revealed significantly higher expression of inflammatory and fibrotic genes in RMS + Tx, which was prevented by RET. In the RMS + Tx model, RET also significantly altered expression of genes involved in extracellular matrix turnover.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study suggests that RET preserves muscle mass and performance in a model of juvenile RMS survivorship while partially restoring cellular dynamics and the inflammatory and fibrotic transcriptome.

The myonuclear domain in adult skeletal muscle fibres: past, present and future

Most cells in the body are mononuclear whereas skeletal muscle fibres are uniquely multinuclear. The nuclei of muscle fibres (myonuclei) are usually situated peripherally which complicates the equitable distribution of gene products. Myonuclear abundance can also change under conditions such as hypertrophy and atrophy. Specialised zones in muscle fibres have different functions and thus distinct synthetic demands from myonuclei. The complex structure and regulatory requirements of multinuclear muscle cells understandably led to the hypothesis that myonuclei govern defined 'domains' to maintain homeostasis and facilitate adaptation. The purpose of this review is to provide historical context for the myonuclear domain and evaluate its veracity with respect to mRNA and protein distribution resulting from myonuclear transcription. We synthesise insights from past and current in vitro and in vivo genetically modified models for studying the myonuclear domain under dynamic conditions. We also cover the most contemporary knowledge on mRNA and protein transport in muscle cells. Insights from emerging technologies such as single myonuclear RNA-sequencing further inform our discussion of the myonuclear domain. We broadly conclude: (1) the myonuclear domain can be flexible during muscle fibre growth and atrophy, (2) the mechanisms and role of myonuclear loss and motility deserve further consideration, (3) mRNA in muscle is actively transported via microtubules and locally restricted, but proteins may travel far from a myonucleus of origin and (4) myonuclear transcriptional specialisation extends beyond the classic neuromuscular and myotendinous populations. A deeper understanding of the myonuclear domain in muscle may promote effective therapies for ageing and disease.

Skeletal Muscle Nuclei in Mice are not Post-mitotic

The skeletal muscle research field generally accepts that nuclei in skeletal muscle fibers (ie, myonuclei) are post-mitotic and unable to proliferate. Because our deuterium oxide (D2O) labeling studies showed DNA synthesis in skeletal muscle tissue, we hypothesized that resident myonuclei can replicate in vivo. To test this hypothesis, we used a mouse model that temporally labeled myonuclei with GFP followed by D2O labeling during normal cage activity, functional overload, and with satellite cell ablation. During normal cage activity, we observed deuterium enrichment into myonuclear DNA in 7 out of 7 plantaris (PLA), 6 out of 6 tibialis anterior (TA), 5 out of 7 gastrocnemius (GAST), and 7 out of 7 quadriceps (QUAD). The average fractional synthesis rates (FSR) of DNA in myonuclei were: 0.0202 ± 0.0093 in PLA, 0.0239 ± 0.0040 in TA, 0.0076 ± 0. 0058 in GAST, and 0.0138 ± 0.0039 in QUAD, while there was no replication in myonuclei from EDL. These FSR values were largely reproduced in the overload and satellite cell ablation conditions, although there were higher synthesis rates in the overloaded PLA muscle. We further provided evidence that myonuclear replication is through endoreplication, which results in polyploidy. These novel findings contradict the dogma that skeletal muscle nuclei are post-mitotic and open potential avenues to harness the intrinsic replicative ability of myonuclei for muscle maintenance and growth.

Chemokine-like receptor 1 plays a critical role in modulating the regenerative and contractile properties of muscle tissue

Musculoskeletal diseases are a leading contributor to mobility disability worldwide. Since the majority of patients with musculoskeletal diseases present with associated muscle weakness, treatment approaches typically comprise an element of resistance training to restore physical strength. The health-promoting effects of resistance exercise are mediated via complex, multifarious mechanisms including modulation of systemic and local inflammation. Here we investigated whether targeted inhibition of the chemerin pathway, which largely controls inflammatory processes via chemokine-like receptor 1 (CMKLR1), can improve skeletal muscle function. Using genetically modified mice, we demonstrate that blockade of CMKLR1 transiently increases maximal strength during growth, but lastingly decreases strength endurance. In-depth analyses of the underlying long-term adaptations revealed microscopic alterations in the number of Pax7-positive satellite cells, as well as molecular changes in genes governing myogenesis and calcium handling. Taken together, these data provide evidence of a critical role for CMKLR1 in regulating skeletal muscle function by modulating the regenerative and contractile properties of muscle tissue. CMKLR1 antagonists are increasingly viewed as therapeutic modalities for a variety of diseases (e.g., psoriasis, metabolic disorders, and multiple sclerosis). Our findings thus have implications for the development of novel drug substances that aim at targeting the chemerin pathway for musculoskeletal or other diseases.

Impaired regenerative capacity contributes to skeletal muscle dysfunction in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Locomotor skeletal muscle dysfunction is a relevant comorbidity of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and is strongly associated with worse clinical outcomes including higher mortality. Over the last decades, a large body of literature helped characterize the process, defining the disruptive muscle phenotype caused by COPD that involves reduction in muscle mass, force-generation capacity, fatigue-tolerance, and regenerative potential following injury. A major limitation in the field has been the scarcity of well-calibrated animal models to conduct mechanistic research based on loss- and gain-of-function studies. This article provides an overall description of the process, the tools available to mechanistically investigate it, and the potential role of mitochondrially driven metabolic signals on the regulation muscle regeneration after injury in COPD. Finally, a description of future avenues to further expand on the area is proposed based on very recent evidence involving mitochondrial metabolic cues affecting myogenesis.

Should We Void Lactate in the Pathophysiology of Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness? Not So Fast! Let’s See a Neurocentric View!

The pathophysiology of delayed onset muscle soreness is not entirely known. It seems to be a simple, exercise-induced delayed pain condition, but has remained a mystery for over 120 years. The buildup of lactic acid used to be blamed for muscle fatigue and delayed onset muscle soreness; however, studies in the 1980s largely refuted the role of lactate in delayed onset muscle soreness. Regardless, this belief is widely held even today, not only in the general public, but within the medical and scientific community as well. Current opinion is highlighting lactate’s role in delayed onset muscle soreness, if neural dimension and neuro-energetics are not overlooked. By doing so, lactate seems to have an essential role in the initiation of the primary damage phase of delayed onset muscle soreness within the intrafusal space. Unaccustomed or strenuous eccentric contractions are suggested to facilitate lactate nourishment of proprioceptive sensory neurons in the muscle spindle under hyperexcitation. However, excessive acidosis and lactate could eventually contribute to impaired proprioception and increased nociception under pathological condition. Furthermore, lactate could also contribute to the secondary damage phase of delayed onset muscle soreness in the extrafusal space, primarily by potentiating the role of bradykinin. After all, neural interpretation may help us to dispel a 40-year-old controversy about lactate’s role in the pathophysiology of delayed onset muscle soreness.

Immunometabolism of macrophages regulates skeletal muscle regeneration

Sarcopenia is an age-related progressive loss of skeletal muscle mass, quality, and strength disease. In addition, sarcopenia is tightly correlated with age-associated pathologies, such as sarcopenic obesity and osteoporosis. Further understanding of disease mechanisms and the therapeutic strategies in muscle regeneration requires a deeper knowledge of the interaction of skeletal muscle and other cells in the muscle tissue. Skeletal muscle regeneration is a complex process that requires a series of highly coordinated events involving communication between muscle stem cells and niche cells, such as muscle fibro/adipogenic progenitors and macrophages. Macrophages play a critical role in tissue regeneration and the maintenance of muscle homeostasis by producing growth factors and cytokines that regulate muscle stem cells and myofibroblast activation. Furthermore, the aging-related immune dysregulation associated with the release of trophic factors and the polarization in macrophages transiently affect the inflammatory phase and impair muscle regeneration. In this review, we focus on the role and regulation of macrophages in skeletal muscle regeneration and homeostasis. The aim of this review is to highlight the important roles of macrophages as a therapeutic target in age-related sarcopenia and the increasing understanding of how macrophages are regulated will help to advance skeletal muscle regeneration.

Combined fibre atrophy and decreased muscle regeneration capacity driven by mitochondrial DNA alterations underlie the development of sarcopenia

BACKGROUND

Mitochondrial dysfunction caused by mitochondrial (mtDNA) deletions have been associated with skeletal muscle atrophy and myofibre loss. However, whether such defects occurring in myofibres cause sarcopenia is unclear. Also, the contribution of mtDNA alterations in muscle stem cells (MuSCs) to sarcopenia remains to be investigated.

METHODS

We expressed a dominant-negative variant of the mitochondrial helicase, which induces mtDNA alterations, specifically in differentiated myofibres (K320E^skm mice) and MuSCs (K320E^msc mice), respectively, and investigated their impact on muscle structure and function by immunohistochemistry, analysis of mtDNA and respiratory chain content, muscle transcriptome and functional tests.

RESULTS

K320E^skm mice at 24 months of age had higher levels of mtDNA deletions compared with controls in soleus (SOL, 0.07673% vs. 0.00015%, P = 0.0167), extensor digitorum longus (EDL, 0.0649 vs. 0.000925, P = 0.0015) and gastrocnemius (GAS, 0.09353 vs. 0.000425, P = 0.0004). K320E^skm mice revealed a progressive increase in the proportion of cytochrome c oxidase deficient (COX^- ) fibres in skeletal muscle cross sections, reaching a maximum of 3.03%, 4.36%, 13.58%, and 17.08% in EDL, SOL, tibialis anterior (TA) and GAS, respectively. However, mice did not show accelerated loss of muscle mass, muscle strength or physical performance. Histological analyses revealed ragged red fibres but also stimulated regeneration, indicating activation of MuSCs. RNAseq demonstrated enhanced expression of genes associated with protein synthesis, but also degradation, as well as muscle fibre differentiation and cell proliferation. In contrast, 7 days after destruction by cardiotoxin, regenerating TA of K320E^msc mice showed 30% of COX^- fibres. Notably, regenerated muscle showed dystrophic changes, increased fibrosis (2.5% vs. 1.6%, P = 0.0003), increased abundance of fat cells (2.76% vs. 0.23%, P = 0.0144) and reduced muscle mass (regenerated TA: 40.0 mg vs. 60.2 mg, P = 0.0171). In contrast to muscles from K320E^skm mice, freshly isolated MuSCs from aged K320E^msc mice were completely devoid of mtDNA alterations. However, after passaging, mtDNA copy number as well as respiratory chain subunits and p62 levels gradually decreased.

CONCLUSIONS

Taken together, accumulation of large-scale mtDNA alterations in myofibres alone is not sufficient to cause sarcopenia. Expression of K320E-Twinkle is tolerated in quiescent MuSCs, but progressively leads to mtDNA and respiratory chain depletion upon activation, in vivo and in vitro, possibly caused by an increased mitochondrial removal. Altogether, our results suggest that the accumulation of mtDNA alterations in myofibres activates regeneration during aging, which leads to sarcopenia if such alterations have expanded in MuSCs as well.

The initial delay to mitotic activity in primary cultures of equine satellite cells is reduced by combinations of growth factors

Satellite cell (SC) activation is defined as the time frame during which the stem cell becomes poised to reenter G1 of the cell cycle. The growth factors and events leading to full mitotic activation in equine SCs remain largely unknown. Insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I), hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), and fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) are sequentially transcribed during the muscle repair and recovery period following strenuous exercise in adult horses. Expression of IGF-I occurs within 24 h of the postexercise recovery period suggesting it may affect early SC actions. As a first step, gluteus medius muscle cryosections from adult horses (n = 9) were examined for the presence of central nuclei (CN), a marker of SC addition to the fiber. Results demonstrate few CN fibers prior to exercise with a 3-fold increase (P = 0.05) 24 h postexercise. Cultures of SC (n = 4 isolates) were treated with 100 ng/mL IGF-I for varying times prior to measurement of myogenic events. Results demonstrate that IGF-I does not affect the initial lag period, proliferation, or subsequent differentiation of equine SC in vitro (P > 0.05). However, media containing a combination of IGF-I and 10 ng/mL FGF2 and 25 ng/mL HGF hastens (P < 0.05) the time to S-phase entry in fresh isolates of SCs. Media supplementation with optimal concentrations of FGF2, HGF, or a combination of HGF and FGF2 suppresses (P < 0.05) the percentage of myogenin immunopositive SCs to levels below that found in control- or IGF-I-treated SCs. These results provide new insight into the combinatorial roles growth factors play during equine SC myogenesis.

Preliminary Study of S100B and Sema3A Expression Patterns in Regenerating Muscle Implicates P75-Expressing Terminal Schwann Cells and Muscle Satellite Cells in Neuromuscular Junction Restoration

Terminal Schwann cells (TSCs) help regulate the formation, maintenance, function, and repair of neuromuscular junctions (NMJs) and axon guidance after muscle injury. Premature activation of muscle satellite cells (SCs), induced by isosorbide dinitrate (ISDN) before injury, accelerates myogenic regeneration, disrupts NMJ remodeling and maturation, decreases Sema3A protein-induced neuro-repulsion, and is accompanied by time-dependent changes in S100B protein levels. Here, to study the effects of premature SC activation on TSCs and SCs, both expressing P75 nerve growth-factor receptor, in situ hybridization was used to identify transcripts of S100B and Sema3A, and the number, intensity, and diameter of expression sites were analyzed. The number of sites/fields expressing S100B and Sema3A increased with regeneration time (both p < 0.001). Expression-site intensity (S100B) and diameter (S100B and Sema3A) decreased during regeneration (p = 0.005; p < 0.05, p = 0.006, respectively). P75 protein colocalized with a subset of S100B and Sema3A expression sites. Principal component analyses of gene expression, protein levels, and histological variables (fiber diameter, vascular density) in control and ISDN-pretreated groups explained 83% and 64% of the dataset variance, respectively. A very strong loading coefficient for colocalization of P75 protein with S100B and Sema3A mRNAs (0.91) in control regenerating muscle dropped markedly during regeneration disrupted by premature SC activation (−0.10 in Factor 1 to 0.55 in Factor 3). These findings strongly implicate the triple-expression profile by TSCs and/or SCs as a strong correlate of the important synchrony of muscle and nerve regeneration after muscle tissue injury. The results have the potential to focus future research on the complex interplay of TSCs and SCs in neuromuscular tissue repair and help promote effective function after traumatic muscle injury.

Characterization of cellular senescence in aging skeletal muscle

Senescence is a cell fate that contributes to multiple aging-related pathologies. Despite profound age-associated changes in skeletal muscle (SkM), whether its constituent cells are prone to senesce has not been methodically examined. Herein, using single cell and bulk RNA-sequencing and complementary imaging methods on SkM of young and old mice, we demonstrate that a subpopulation of old fibroadipogenic progenitors highly expresses p16 ^Ink4a together with multiple senescence-related genes and, concomitantly, exhibits DNA damage and chromatin reorganization. Through analysis of isolated myofibers, we also detail a senescence phenotype within a subset of old cells, governed instead by p2 ^Cip1 . Administration of a senotherapeutic intervention to old mice countered age-related molecular and morphological changes and improved SkM strength. Finally, we found that the senescence phenotype is conserved in SkM from older humans. Collectively, our data provide compelling evidence for cellular senescence as a hallmark and potentially tractable mediator of SkM aging.

Deaccelerated Myogenesis and Autophagy in Genetically Induced Pulmonary Emphysema

Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)-pulmonary emphysema often develop locomotor muscle dysfunction, which entails reduced muscle mass and force-generation capacity and is associated with worse outcomes, including higher mortality. Myogenesis contributes to adult muscle integrity during injury-repair cycles. Injurious events crucially occur in the skeletal muscles of patients with COPD in the setting of exacerbations and infections, which lead to acute decompensations for limited periods of time, after which patients typically fail to recover the baseline status they had before the acute event. Autophagy, which is dysregulated in muscles from patients with COPD, is a key regulator of muscle stem-satellite- cells activation and myogenesis, yet very little research has so far mechanistically investigated the role of autophagy dysregulation in COPD muscles. Using a genetically inducible interleukin-13-driven pulmonary emphysema model leading to muscle dysfunction, and confirmed with a second genetic animal model, we found a significant myogenic dysfunction associated with the reduced proliferative capacity of satellite cells. Transplantation experiments followed by lineage tracing suggest that an intrinsic defect in satellite cells, and not in the COPD environment, plays a dominant role in the observed myogenic dysfunction. RNA sequencing analysis and direct observation of COPD mice satellite cells suggest dysregulated autophagy. Moreover, while autophagy flux experiments with bafilomycin demonstrated deacceleration of autophagosome turnover in COPD mice satellite cells, spermidine-induced autophagy stimulation leads to a higher replication rate and myogenesis in these animals. Our data suggest that pulmonary emphysema causes disrupted myogenesis, which could be improved with stimulation of autophagy and satellite cells activation, leading to an attenuated muscle dysfunction.

Muscle-Specific Cellular and Molecular Adaptations to Late-Life Voluntary Concurrent Exercise

Murine exercise models can provide information on factors that influence muscle adaptability with aging, but few translatable solutions exist. Progressive weighted wheel running (PoWeR) is a simple, voluntary, low-cost, high-volume endurance/resistance exercise approach for training young mice. In the current investigation, aged mice (22-mo-old) underwent a modified version of PoWeR for 8 wk. Muscle functional, cellular, biochemical, transcriptional, and myonuclear DNA methylation analyses provide an encompassing picture of how muscle from aged mice responds to high-volume combined training. Mice run 6-8 km/d, and relative to sedentary mice, PoWeR increases plantarflexor muscle strength. The oxidative soleus of aged mice responds to PoWeR similarly to young mice in every parameter measured in previous work; this includes muscle mass, glycolytic-to-oxidative fiber type transitioning, fiber size, satellite cell frequency, and myonuclear number. The oxidative/glycolytic plantaris adapts according to fiber type, but with modest overall changes in muscle mass. Capillarity increases markedly with PoWeR in both muscles, which may be permissive for adaptability in advanced age. Comparison to published PoWeR RNA-sequencing data in young mice identified conserved regulators of adaptability across age and muscles; this includes Aldh1l1 which associates with muscle vasculature. Agrn and Samd1 gene expression is upregulated after PoWeR simultaneous with a hypomethylated promoter CpG in myonuclear DNA, which could have implications for innervation and capillarization. A promoter CpG in Rbm10 is hypomethylated by late-life exercise in myonuclei, consistent with findings in muscle tissue. PoWeR and the data herein are a resource for uncovering cellular and molecular regulators of muscle adaptation with aging.

Insights into muscle stem cell dynamics during postnatal development

During development, resident stem cell populations contribute to the growth and maturation of tissue and organs. In skeletal muscle, muscle stem cells, or satellite cells (SCs), are responsible for the maturation of postnatal myofibers. However, the role SCs play in later stages of postnatal growth, and thus, when they enter a mature quiescent state is controversial. Here, we discuss the current literature regarding the role SCs play in all stages of postnatal growth, from birth to puberty onset to young adulthood. We additionally highlight the implications of SC loss or dysfunction during developmental stages, both in the context of experimental paradigms and disease settings.

Sex Hormones and Satellite Cell Regulation in Women

Recent years have seen growing scholarly interest in female physiology in general. Moreover, particular attention has been devoted to how concentrations of female sex hormones vary during the menstrual cycle and menopausal transition and how hormonal contraception and hormonal therapy influence skeletal muscle tissue. While much effort has been paid to macro outcomes, such as muscle function or mass, rather less attention has been paid to mechanistic work that may help explain the underlying mechanism through which sex hormones regulate skeletal muscle tissue. Evidence from animal studies shows a strong relationship between the female sex hormone estrogen and satellite cells (SCs), a population of muscle stem cells involved in skeletal muscle regulation. A few human studies investigating this relationship have been published only recently. Thus, the purpose of this study was to bring an updated review on female sex hormones and their role in SC regulation. First, we describe how SCs regulate skeletal muscle maintenance and repair and introduce sex hormone signaling within the muscle. Second, we present evidence from animal studies elucidating how estrogen deficiency and supplementation influence SCs. Third, we present results from investigations from human trials including women whose concentrations of female hormones differ due to menopause, hormone therapy, hormonal contraceptives, and the menstrual cycle. Finally, we discuss research and methodological recommendations for future studies aiming at elucidating the link between female sex hormones and SCs with respect to aging and training.

State of Knowledge on Molecular Adaptations to Exercise in Humans: Historical Perspectives and Future Directions

For centuries, regular exercise has been acknowledged as a potent stimulus to promote, maintain, and restore healthy functioning of nearly every physiological system of the human body. With advancing understanding of the complexity of human physiology, continually evolving methodological possibilities, and an increasingly dire public health situation, the study of exercise as a preventative or therapeutic treatment has never been more interdisciplinary, or more impactful. During the early stages of the NIH Common Fund Molecular Transducers of Physical Activity Consortium (MoTrPAC) Initiative, the field is well-positioned to build substantially upon the existing understanding of the mechanisms underlying benefits associated with exercise. Thus, we present a comprehensive body of the knowledge detailing the current literature basis surrounding the molecular adaptations to exercise in humans to provide a view of the state of the field at this critical juncture, as well as a resource for scientists bringing external expertise to the field of exercise physiology. In reviewing current literature related to molecular and cellular processes underlying exercise-induced benefits and adaptations, we also draw attention to existing knowledge gaps warranting continued research effort. © 2021 American Physiological Society. Compr Physiol 12:3193-3279, 2022.

Preserved stem cell content and innervation profile of elderly human skeletal muscle with lifelong recreational exercise

Abstract

Muscle fibre denervation and declining numbers of muscle stem (satellite) cells are defining characteristics of ageing skeletal muscle. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential for lifelong recreational exercise to offset muscle fibre denervation and compromised satellite cell content and function, both at rest and under challenged conditions. Sixteen elderly lifelong recreational exercisers (LLEX) were studied alongside groups of age‐matched sedentary (SED) and young subjects. Lean body mass and maximal voluntary contraction were assessed, and a strength training bout was performed. From muscle biopsies, tissue and primary myogenic cell cultures were analysed by immunofluorescence and RT‐qPCR to assess myofibre denervation and satellite cell quantity and function. LLEX demonstrated superior muscle function under challenged conditions. When compared with SED, the muscle of LLEX was found to contain a greater content of satellite cells associated with type II myofibres specifically, along with higher mRNA levels of the beta and gamma acetylcholine receptors (AChR). No difference was observed between LLEX and SED for the proportion of denervated fibres or satellite cell function, as assessed in vitro by myogenic cell differentiation and fusion index assays. When compared with inactive counterparts, the skeletal muscle of lifelong exercisers is characterised by greater fatigue resistance under challenged conditions in vivo, together with a more youthful tissue satellite cell and AChR profile. Our data suggest a little recreational level exercise goes a long way in protecting against the emergence of classic phenotypic traits associated with the aged muscle.

Key points

The detrimental effects of ageing can be partially offset by lifelong self‐organized recreational exercise, as evidence by preserved type II myofibre‐associated satellite cells, a beneficial muscle innervation status and greater fatigue resistance under challenged conditions.

Satellite cell function (in vitro), muscle fibre size and muscle fibre denervation determined by immunofluorescence were not affected by recreational exercise.

Individuals that are recreationally active are far more abundant than master athletes, which sharply increases the translational perspective of the present study. Future studies should further investigate recreational activity in relation to muscle health, while also including female participants.

Key concepts in muscle regeneration: muscle "cellular ecology" integrates a gestalt of cellular cross-talk, motility, and activity to remodel structure and restore function

This review identifies some key concepts of muscle regeneration, viewed from perspectives of classical and modern research. Early insights noted the pattern and sequence of regeneration across species was similar, regardless of the type of injury, and differed from epimorphic limb regeneration. While potential benefits of exercise for tissue repair was debated, regeneration was not presumed to deliver functional restoration, especially after ischemia-reperfusion injury; muscle could develop fibrosis and ectopic bone and fat. Standard protocols and tools were identified as necessary for tracking injury and outcomes. Current concepts vastly extend early insights. Myogenic regeneration occurs within the environment of muscle tissue. Intercellular cross-talk generates an interactive system of cellular networks that with the extracellular matrix and local, regional, and systemic influences, forms the larger gestalt of the satellite cell niche. Regenerative potential and adaptive plasticity are overlain by epigenetically regionalized responsiveness and contributions by myogenic, endothelial, and fibroadipogenic progenitors and inflammatory and metabolic processes. Muscle architecture is a living portrait of functional regulatory hierarchies, while cellular dynamics, physical activity, and muscle-tendon-bone biomechanics arbitrate regeneration. The scope of ongoing research-from molecules and exosomes to morphology and physiology-reveals compelling new concepts in muscle regeneration that will guide future discoveries for use in application to fitness, rehabilitation, and disease prevention and treatment.

Automated cross-sectional analysis of trained, severely atrophied and recovering rat skeletal muscles using MyoVision 2.0

The number of myonuclei within a muscle fiber is an important factor in muscle growth, but its regulation during muscle adaptation is not well understood. We aimed to elucidate the timecourse of myonuclear dynamics during endurance training, loaded and concentric resistance training, and nerve silencing-induced disuse atrophy with subsequent recovery. We modified tibialis anterior muscle activity in free-living rats with electrical stimulation from implantable pulse generators, or with implantable osmotic pumps delivering tetrodotoxin (TTX) to silence the motor nerve without transection. We used the updated, automated software MyoVision to measure fiber type-specific responses in whole tibialis anterior cross-sections (~8000 fibers each). Seven days of continuous low frequency stimulation (CLFS) reduced muscle mass (-12%), increased slower myosin isoforms and reduced IIX/IIB fibers (-32%) and substantially increased myonuclei especially in IIX/IIB fibers (55.5%). High load resistance training (Spillover), produced greater hypertrophy (~16%) in muscle mass and fiber cross-sectional area (CSA) than low load resistance training (concentric, ~6%) and was associated with myonuclear addition in all fiber types (35-46%). TTX-induced nerve silencing resulted in progressive loss in muscle mass, fiber CSA, and myonuclei per fiber cross-section (-50.7%, -53.7%, -40.7%, respectively at 14 days). Myonuclear loss occurred in a fiber type-independent manner, but subsequent recovery during voluntary habitual activity suggested that type IIX/IIB fibers contained more new myonuclei during recovery from severe atrophy. This study demonstrates the power and accuracy provided by the updated MyoVision software and introduces new models for studying myonuclear dynamics in training, detraining, retraining, repeated disuse, and recovery.

Epigenetic evidence for distinct contributions of resident and acquired myonuclei during long-term exercise adaptation using timed in vivo myonuclear labeling

Muscle fibers are syncytial postmitotic cells that can acquire exogenous nuclei from resident muscle stem cells, called satellite cells. Myonuclei are added to muscle fibers by satellite cells during conditions such as load-induced hypertrophy. It is difficult to dissect the molecular contributions of resident versus satellite cell-derived myonuclei during adaptation due to the complexity of labeling distinct nuclear populations in multinuclear cells without label transference between nuclei. To sidestep this barrier, we used a genetic mouse model where myonuclear DNA can be specifically and stably labeled via nonconstitutive H2B-GFP at any point in the lifespan. Resident myonuclei (Mn) were GFP-tagged in vivo before 8 wk of progressive weighted wheel running (PoWeR) in adult mice (>4-mo-old). Resident + satellite cell-derived myonuclei (Mn+SC Mn) were labeled at the end of PoWeR in a separate cohort. Following myonuclear isolation, promoter DNA methylation profiles acquired with low-input reduced representation bisulfite sequencing (RRBS) were compared to deduce epigenetic contributions of satellite cell-derived myonuclei during adaptation. Resident myonuclear DNA has hypomethylated promoters in genes related to protein turnover, whereas the addition of satellite cell-derived myonuclei shifts myonuclear methylation profiles to favor transcription factor regulation and cell-cell signaling. By comparing myonucleus-specific methylation profiling to previously published single-nucleus transcriptional analysis in the absence (Mn) versus the presence of satellite cells (Mn+SC Mn) with PoWeR, we provide evidence that satellite cell-derived myonuclei may preferentially supply specific ribosomal proteins to growing myofibers and retain an epigenetic "memory" of prior stem cell identity. These data offer insights on distinct epigenetic myonuclear characteristics and contributions during adult muscle growth.

Skeletal muscle aging, cellular senescence, and senotherapeutics: Current knowledge and future directions

Cellular senescence is a state of cell cycle arrest induced by several forms of metabolic stress. Senescent cells accumulate with advancing age and have a distinctive phenotype, characterized by profound chromatin alterations and a robust senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) that exerts negative effects on tissue health, both locally and systemically. In preclinical models, pharmacological agents that eliminate senescent cells (senotherapeutics) restore health and youthful properties in multiple tissues. To date, however, very little is understood about the vulnerability of terminally-differentiated skeletal muscle fibers and the resident mononuclear cells that populate the interstitial microenvironment of skeletal muscle to senescence, and their contribution to the onset and progression of skeletal muscle loss and dysfunction with aging. Scientific advances in these areas have the potential to highlight new therapeutic approaches to optimize late-life muscle health. To this end, this review highlights the current evidence and the key questions that need to be addressed to advance the field's understanding of cellular senescence as a mediator of skeletal muscle aging and the potential for emerging senescent cell-targeting therapies to counter age-related deficits in muscle mass, strength, and function. This article is part of the Special Issue - Senolytics - Edited by Joao Passos and Diana Jurk.

Regulation of muscle hypertrophy: Involvement of the Akt-independent pathway and satellite cells in muscle hypertrophy

Skeletal muscles are composed of multinuclear cells called myofibers and have unique abilities, one of which is plasticity. In response to the mechanical load induced by physical activity, skeletal muscle exerts several local adaptations, including an increase in myofiber size and myonuclear number, known as muscle hypertrophy. Protein synthesis and muscle satellite cells (MuSCs) are mainly responsible for these adaptations. However, the upstream signaling pathways that promote protein synthesis remain controversial. Further, the necessity of MuSCs in muscle hypertrophy is also a highly debated issue. In this review, we summarized the insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1)/Akt-independent activation of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling in muscle hypertrophy and the involvement of mTOR signaling in age-related loss of skeletal muscle function and mass and in sarcopenia. The roles and behaviors of MuSCs, characteristics of new myonuclei in muscle hypertrophy, and their relevance to sarcopenia have also been updated in this review.

Shared and distinct mechanisms of skeletal muscle atrophy: A narrative review

Maintenance of skeletal muscle mass and function is an incredibly nuanced balance of anabolism and catabolism that can become distorted within different pathological conditions. In this paper we intend to discuss the distinct intracellular signaling events that regulate muscle protein atrophy for a given clinical occurrence. Aside from the common outcome of muscle deterioration, several conditions have at least one or more distinct mechanisms that creates unique intracellular environments that facilitate muscle loss. The subtle individuality to each of these given pathologies can provide both researchers and clinicians with specific targets of interest to further identify and increase the efficacy of medical treatments and interventions.

Control of satellite cell function in muscle regeneration and its disruption in ageing

Skeletal muscle contains a designated population of adult stem cells, called satellite cells, which are generally quiescent. In homeostasis, satellite cells proliferate only sporadically and usually by asymmetric cell division to replace myofibres damaged by daily activity and maintain the stem cell pool. However, satellite cells can also be robustly activated upon tissue injury, after which they undergo symmetric divisions to generate new stem cells and numerous proliferating myoblasts that later differentiate to muscle cells (myocytes) to rebuild the muscle fibre, thereby supporting skeletal muscle regeneration. Recent discoveries show that satellite cells have a great degree of population heterogeneity, and that their cell fate choices during the regeneration process are dictated by both intrinsic and extrinsic mechanisms. Extrinsic cues come largely from communication with the numerous distinct stromal cell types in their niche, creating a dynamically interactive microenvironment. This Review discusses the role and regulation of satellite cells in skeletal muscle homeostasis and regeneration. In particular, we highlight the cell-intrinsic control of quiescence versus activation, the importance of satellite cell-niche communication, and deregulation of these mechanisms associated with ageing. The increasing understanding of how satellite cells are regulated will help to advance muscle regeneration and rejuvenation therapies.

The Importance of Muscle Capillarization for Optimizing Satellite Cell Plasticity

Satellite cells are essential for skeletal muscle regeneration, repair, and adaptation. The activity of satellite cells is influenced by their interactions with muscle-resident endothelial cells. We postulate that the microvascular network between muscle fibers plays a critical role in satellite cell function. Exercise-induced angiogenesis can mitigate the decline in satellite cell function with age.

Fusion and beyond: Satellite cell contributions to loading-induced skeletal muscle adaptation

Satellite cells support adult skeletal muscle fiber adaptations to loading in numerous ways. The fusion of satellite cells, driven by cell-autonomous and/or extrinsic factors, contributes new myonuclei to muscle fibers, associates with load-induced hypertrophy, and may support focal membrane damage repair and long-term myonuclear transcriptional output. Recent studies have also revealed that satellite cells communicate within their niche to mediate muscle remodeling in response to resistance exercise, regulating the activity of numerous cell types through various mechanisms such as secretory signaling and cell-cell contact. Muscular adaptation to resistance and endurance activity can be initiated and sustained for a period of time in the absence of satellite cells, but satellite cell participation is ultimately required to achieve full adaptive potential, be it growth, function, or proprioceptive coordination. While significant progress has been made in understanding the roles of satellite cells in adult muscle over the last few decades, many conclusions have been extrapolated from regeneration studies. This review highlights our current understanding of satellite cell behavior and contributions to adaptation outside of regeneration in adult muscle, as well as the roles of satellite cells beyond fusion and myonuclear accretion, which are gaining broader recognition.

Nucleus Type-Specific DNA Methylomics Reveals Epigenetic "Memory" of Prior Adaptation in Skeletal Muscle

Using a mouse model of conditional and inducible in vivo fluorescent myonuclear labeling (HSA-GFP), sorting purification of nuclei, low-input reduced representation bisulfite sequencing (RRBS), and a translatable and reversible model of exercise (progressive weighted wheel running, PoWeR), we provide the first nucleus type-specific epigenetic information on skeletal muscle adaptation and detraining. Adult (>4 mo) HSA-GFP mice performed PoWeR for 8 wk then detrained for 12 wk; age-matched untrained mice were used to control for the long duration of the study. Myonuclei and interstitial nuclei from plantaris muscles were isolated for RRBS. Relative to untrained, PoWeR caused similar myonuclear CpG hypo- and hyper-methylation of promoter regions and substantial hypomethylation in interstitial nuclear promoters. Over-representation analysis of promoters revealed a larger number of hyper- versus hypo-methylated pathways in both nuclear populations after training and evidence for reciprocal regulation of methylation between nucleus types, with hypomethylation of promoter regions in Wnt signaling-related genes in myonuclei and hypermethylation in interstitial nuclei. After 12 wk of detraining, promoter CpGs in documented muscle remodeling-associated genes and pathways that were differentially methylated immediately after PoWeR were persistently differentially methylated in myonuclei, along with long-term promoter hypomethylation in interstitial nuclei. No enduring gene expression changes in muscle tissue were observed using RNA-sequencing. Upon 4 wk of retraining, mice that trained previously grew more at the whole muscle and fiber type-specific cellular level than training naïve mice, with no difference in myonuclear number. Muscle nuclei have a methylation epi-memory of prior training that may augment muscle adaptability to retraining.

Exercise/Resistance Training and Muscle Stem Cells

Skeletal muscle has attracted attention as endocrine organ, because exercise-dependent cytokines called myokines/exerkines are released from skeletal muscle and are involved in systemic functions. While, local mechanical loading to skeletal muscle by exercise or resistance training alters myofiber type and size and myonuclear number. Skeletal muscle-resident stem cells, known as muscle satellite cells (MuSCs), are responsible for the increased number of myonuclei. Under steady conditions, MuSCs are maintained in a mitotically quiescent state but exit from that state and start to proliferate in response to high physical activity. Alterations in MuSC behavior occur when myofibers are damaged, but the lethal damage to myofibers does not seem to evoke mechanical loading-dependent MuSC activation and proliferation. Given that MuSCs proliferate without damage, it is unclear how the different behaviors of MuSCs are controlled by different physical activities. Recent studies demonstrated that myonuclear number reflects the size of myofibers; hence, it is crucial to know the properties of MuSCs and the mechanism of myonuclear accretion by MuSCs. In addition, the elucidation of mechanical load-dependent changes in muscle resident cells, including MuSCs, will be necessary for the discovery of new myokines/exerkines and understating skeletal muscle diseases.

Myonuclear transcriptional dynamics in response to exercise following satellite cell depletion

Skeletal muscle is composed of post-mitotic myofibers that form a syncytium containing hundreds of myonuclei. Using a progressive exercise training model in the mouse and single nucleus RNA-sequencing (snRNA-seq) for high-resolution characterization of myonuclear transcription, we show myonuclear functional specialization in muscle. After 4 weeks of exercise training, snRNA-seq reveals that resident muscle stem cells, or satellite cells, are activated with acute exercise but demonstrate limited lineage progression while contributing to muscle adaptation. In the absence of satellite cells, a portion of nuclei demonstrates divergent transcriptional dynamics associated with mixed-fate identities compared with satellite cell replete muscles. These data provide a compendium of information about how satellite cells influence myonuclear transcription in response to exercise.

Early satellite cell communication creates a permissive environment for long-term muscle growth

Using in vivo muscle stem cell (satellite cell)-specific extracellular vesicle (EV) tracking, satellite cell depletion, in vitro cell culture, and single-cell RNA sequencing, we show satellite cells communicate with other cells in skeletal muscle during mechanical overload. Early satellite cell EV communication primes the muscle milieu for proper long-term extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition and is sufficient to support sustained hypertrophy in adult mice, even in the absence of fusion to muscle fibers. Satellite cells modulate chemokine gene expression across cell types within the first few days of loading, and EV delivery of miR-206 to fibrogenic cells represses Wisp1 expression required for appropriate ECM remodeling. Late-stage communication from myogenic cells during loading is widespread but may be targeted toward endothelial cells. Satellite cells coordinate adaptation by influencing the phenotype of recipient cells, which extends our understanding of their role in muscle adaptation beyond regeneration and myonuclear donation.

Modeling muscle regeneration in RNA toxicity mice

RNA toxicity underlies the pathogenesis of disorders such as myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1). Muscular dystrophy is a key element of the pathology of DM1. The means by which RNA toxicity causes muscular dystrophy in DM1 is unclear. Here, we have used the DM200 mouse model of RNA toxicity due to the expression of a mutant DMPK 3′UTR mRNA to model the effects of RNA toxicity on muscle regeneration. Using a BaCl₂-induced damage model, we find that RNA toxicity leads to decreased expression of PAX7, and decreased numbers of satellite cells, the stem cells of adult skeletal muscle (also known as MuSCs). This is associated with a delay in regenerative response, a lack of muscle fiber maturation and an inability to maintain a normal number of satellite cells. Repeated muscle damage also elicited key aspects of muscular dystrophy, including fat droplet deposition and increased fibrosis, and the results represent one of the first times to model these classic markers of dystrophic changes in the skeletal muscles of a mouse model of RNA toxicity. Using a ligand-conjugated antisense (LICA) oligonucleotide ASO targeting DMPK sequences for the first time in a mouse model of RNA toxicity in DM1, we find that treatment with IONIS 877864, which targets the DMPK 3′UTR mRNA, is efficacious in correcting the defects in regenerative response and the reductions in satellite cell numbers caused by RNA toxicity. These results demonstrate the possibilities for therapeutic interventions to mitigate the muscular dystrophy associated with RNA toxicity in DM1.

Translational research on Myology and Mobility Medicine: 2021 semi-virtual PDM3 from Thermae of Euganean Hills, May 26 - 29, 2021

On 19-21 November 2020, the meeting of the 30 years of the Padova Muscle Days was virtually held while the SARS-CoV-2 epidemic was hitting the world after a seemingly quiet summer. During the 2020-2021 winter, the epidemic is still active, despite the start of vaccinations. The organizers hope to hold the 2021 Padua Days on Myology and Mobility Medicine in a semi-virtual form (2021 S-V PDM3) from May 26 to May 29 at the Thermae of Euganean Hills, Padova, Italy. Here the program and the Collection of Abstracts are presented. Despite numerous world problems, the number of submitted/selected presentations (lectures and oral presentations) has increased, prompting the organizers to extend the program to four dense days.

Muscle Stem Cell Quiescence: Controlling Stemness by Staying Asleep

Muscle stem cells (MuSCs) are tissue-resident stem cells required for growth and repair of skeletal muscle, that are otherwise maintained in a cell-cycle-arrested state called quiescence. While quiescence was originally believed to be a state of cellular inactivity, increasing evidence suggests that quiescence is dynamically regulated and contributes to stemness, the long-term capacity to maintain regenerative functions. Here, we review the current understanding of MuSC quiescence and highlight recently discovered molecular markers, which differentiate depth of quiescence and influence self-renewal capacity. We also discuss how quiescent MuSCs integrate paracrine factors from their niche and dynamically regulate cell signaling, metabolism and proteostasis as they anticipate physiological needs, and how perturbing these cues during aging impairs muscle regeneration.

Short-term metformin ingestion by healthy older adults improves myoblast function

Muscle progenitor cells (MPCs) in aged muscle exhibit impaired activation into proliferating myoblasts, thereby impairing fusion and changes in secreted factors. The antihyperglycemic drug metformin, currently studied as a candidate antiaging therapy, may have potential to promote function of aged MPCs. We evaluated the impact of 2 wk of metformin ingestion on primary myoblast function measured in vitro after being extracted from muscle biopsies of older adult participants. MPCs were isolated from muscle biopsies of community-dwelling older (4 male/4 female, ∼69 yr) adult participants before (pre) and after (post) the metformin ingestion period and studied in vitro. Cells were extracted from Young participants (4 male/4 female, ∼27 yr) to serve as a "youthful" comparator. MPCs from Old subjects had lower fusion index and myoblast-endothelial cell homing compared with Young, while Old MPCs, extracted after short-term metformin ingestion, performed better at both tasks. Transcriptomic analyses of Old MPCs (vs. Young) revealed decreased histone expression and increased myogenic pathway activity, yet this phenotype was partially restored by metformin. However, metformin ingestion exacerbated pathways related to inflammation signaling. Together, this study demonstrated that 2 wk of metformin ingestion induced persistent effects on Old MPCs that improved function in vitro and altered their transcriptional signature including histone and chromatin remodeling.

Aging of the immune system and impaired muscle regeneration: A failure of immunomodulation of adult myogenesis

Skeletal muscle regeneration that follows acute injury is strongly influenced by interactions with immune cells that invade and proliferate in the damaged tissue. Discoveries over the past 20 years have identified many of the key mechanisms through which myeloid cells, especially macrophages, regulate muscle regeneration. In addition, lymphoid cells that include CD8+ T-cells and regulatory T-cells also significantly affect the course of muscle regeneration. During aging, the regenerative capacity of skeletal muscle declines, which can contribute to progressive loss of muscle mass and function. Those age-related reductions in muscle regeneration are accompanied by systemic, age-related changes in the immune system, that affect many of the myeloid and lymphoid cell populations that can influence muscle regeneration. In this review, we present recent discoveries that indicate that aging of the immune system contributes to the diminished regenerative capacity of aging muscle. Intrinsic, age-related changes in immune cells modify their expression of factors that affect the function of a population of muscle stem cells, called satellite cells, that are necessary for normal muscle regeneration. For example, age-related reductions in the expression of growth differentiation factor-3 (GDF3) or CXCL10 by macrophages negatively affect adult myogenesis, by disrupting regulatory interactions between macrophages and satellite cells. Those changes contribute to a reduction in the numbers and myogenic capacity of satellite cells in old muscle, which reduces their ability to restore damaged muscle. In addition, aging produces changes in the expression of molecules that regulate the inflammatory response to injured muscle, which also contributes to age-related defects in muscle regeneration. For example, age-related increases in the production of osteopontin by macrophages disrupts the normal inflammatory response to muscle injury, resulting in regenerative defects. These nascent findings represent the beginning of a newly-developing field of investigation into mechanisms through which aging of the immune system affects muscle regeneration.

Nuclear numbers in syncytial muscle fibers promote size but limit the development of larger myonuclear domains

Mammalian cells exhibit remarkable diversity in cell size, but the factors that regulate establishment and maintenance of these sizes remain poorly understood. This is especially true for skeletal muscle, comprised of syncytial myofibers that each accrue hundreds of nuclei during development. Here, we directly explore the assumed causal relationship between multinucleation and establishment of normal size through titration of myonuclear numbers during mouse neonatal development. Three independent mouse models, where myonuclear numbers were reduced by 75, 55, or 25%, led to the discovery that myonuclei possess a reserve capacity to support larger functional cytoplasmic volumes in developing myofibers. Surprisingly, the results revealed an inverse relationship between nuclei numbers and reserve capacity. We propose that as myonuclear numbers increase, the range of transcriptional return on a per nuclear basis in myofibers diminishes, which accounts for both the absolute reliance developing myofibers have on nuclear accrual to establish size, and the limits of adaptability in adult skeletal muscle.

Muscle memory: myonuclear accretion, maintenance, morphology, and miRNA levels with training and detraining in adult mice

BACKGROUND

In the context of mass regulation, 'muscle memory' can be defined as long-lasting cellular adaptations to hypertrophic exercise training that persist during detraining-induced atrophy and may facilitate future adaptation. The cellular basis of muscle memory is not clearly defined but may be related to myonuclear number and/or epigenetic changes within muscle fibres.

METHODS

Utilizing progressive weighted wheel running (PoWeR), a novel murine exercise training model, we explored myonuclear dynamics and skeletal muscle miRNA levels with training and detraining utilizing immunohistochemistry, single fibre myonuclear analysis, and quantitative analysis of miRNAs. We also used a genetically inducible mouse model of fluorescent myonuclear labelling to study myonuclear adaptations early during exercise.

RESULTS

In the soleus, oxidative type 2a fibres were larger after 2 months of PoWeR (P = 0.02), but muscle fibre size and myonuclear number did not return to untrained levels after 6 months of detraining. Soleus type 1 fibres were not larger after PoWeR but had significantly more myonuclei, as well as central nuclei (P < 0.0001), the latter from satellite cell-derived or resident myonuclei, appearing early during training and remaining with detraining. In the gastrocnemius muscle, oxidative type 2a fibres of the deep region were larger and contained more myonuclei after PoWeR (P < 0.003), both of which returned to untrained levels after detraining. In the gastrocnemius and plantaris, two muscles where myonuclear number was comparable with untrained levels after 6 months of detraining, myonuclei were significantly elongated with detraining (P < 0.0001). In the gastrocnemius, miR-1 was lower with training and remained lower after detraining (P < 0.002).

CONCLUSIONS

This study found that (i) myonuclei gained during hypertrophy are lost with detraining across muscles, even in oxidative fibres; (ii) complete reversal of muscle adaptations, including myonuclear number, to untrained levels occurs within 6 months in the plantaris and gastrocnemius; (iii) the murine soleus is resistant to detraining; (iv) myonuclear accretion occurs early with wheel running and can be uncoupled from muscle fibre hypertrophy; (v) resident (non-satellite cell-derived) myonuclei can adopt a central location; (vi) myonuclei change shape with training and detraining; and (vii) miR-1 levels may reflect a memory of previous adaptation that facilitates future growth.

Satellite Cell Depletion Disrupts Transcriptional Coordination and Muscle Adaptation to Exercise

Satellite cells are required for postnatal development, skeletal muscle regeneration across the lifespan, and skeletal muscle hypertrophy prior to maturity. Our group has aimed to address whether satellite cells are required for hypertrophic growth in mature skeletal muscle. Here, we generated a comprehensive characterization and transcriptome-wide profiling of skeletal muscle during adaptation to exercise in the presence or absence of satellite cells in order to identify distinct phenotypes and gene networks influenced by satellite cell content. We administered vehicle or tamoxifen to adult Pax7-DTA mice and subjected them to progressive weighted wheel running (PoWeR). We then performed immunohistochemical analysis and whole-muscle RNA-seq of vehicle (SC+) and tamoxifen-treated (SC-) mice. Further, we performed single myonuclear RNA-seq to provide detailed information on how satellite cell fusion affects myonuclear transcription. We show that while skeletal muscle can mount a robust hypertrophic response to PoWeR in the absence of satellite cells, growth, and adaptation are ultimately blunted. Transcriptional profiling reveals several gene networks key to muscle adaptation are altered in the absence of satellite cells.

Tissue Stem Cells: Architects of Their Niches

Stem cells (SCs) maintain tissue homeostasis and repair wounds. Despite marked variation in tissue architecture and regenerative demands, SCs often follow similar paradigms in communicating with their microenvironmental "niche" to transition between quiescent and regenerative states. Here we use skin epithelium and skeletal muscle-among the most highly-stressed tissues in our body-to highlight similarities and differences in niche constituents and how SCs mediate natural tissue rejuvenation and perform regenerative acts prompted by injuries. We discuss how these communication networks break down during aging and how understanding tissue SCs has led to major advances in regenerative medicine.