Influence of exercise contraction mode and protein supplementation on human skeletal muscle satellite cell content and muscle fiber growth

Novel high-protein dairy product based on fresh white cheese and whey protein isolate

The aim of the study was to obtain hard dairy product similar to the rennet hard cheese starting from the fresh white cheese (low and full-fat). This was accomplished with adding a powdered whey protein isolate to the fresh white cheese and heating. Fresh white cheese was produced from full or skim milk and ground with the whey protein isolate powder. The obtained mixture was heated at different temperatures. The increased heating temperature resulted in a more compact product characterized by higher hardness and elasticity. The full-fat product had lower hardness and elasticity in comparison with the low-fat product. The product approved by the organoleptic analysis panel was obtained by heating the mixed fat white cheese and the powdered whey protein isolate at 80°C for 30 min. The most significant achievement was to obtain in ∼1 h a product similar to that produced in ∼2 yr that is the hard rennet cheese. It contained ∼39% wt/wt of protein and can be an interesting offer for dairy industry.

Synergistic Effects of Icariin and Extracellular Vesicles Derived from Rabbit Synovial Membrane-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells on Osteochondral Repair via the Wnt/β-Catenin Pathway

Objectives

Osteochondral defects (OCDs) are localized areas of damaged cartilage and underlying subchondral bone that can produce pain and seriously impair joint function. Literature reports indicated that icariin (ICA) has the effect of promoting cartilage repair. However, its mechanism remains unclear. Here, we explored the effects of icariin and extracellular vesicles (EVs) from rabbit synovial-derived mesenchymal stem cells (rSMSCs) on repairing of OCDs.

Materials and Methods

Rabbit primary genicular chondrocytes (rPGCs), knee skeletal muscle cells (rSMCKs), and rSMSCs, and extracellular vesicles derived from the latter two cells (rSMCK-EVs and rSMSC-EVs) were isolated and identified. The rPGCs were stimulated with ICA, rSMSC-EVs either separately or in combination. The rSMCK-EVs were used as a control. After stimulation, chondrogenic-related markers were analyzed by quantitative RT-PCR and western blotting. Cell proliferation was determined by the CCK-8 assay. The preventative effects of ICA and SMSC-EVs in vivo were determined by H&E and toluidine blue staining. Immunohistochemical analyses were performed to evaluate the levels of COL2A1 and β-catenin in vivo. Results. In vitro, the proliferation of rPGCs was markedly increased by ICA treatment in a dose-dependent manner. When compared with ICA or rSMSC-EVs treatment alone, combined treatment with ICA and SMSC-EVs produced stronger stimulative effects on cell proliferation. Moreover, combined treatment with ICA and rSMSC-EVs promoted the expression of chondrogenic-related gene, including COL2A1, SOX-9, and RUNX2, which may be via the activation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. In vivo, combined treatment with rSMSC-EVs and ICA promoted cartilage repair in joint bone defects. Results also showed that ICA or rSMSC-EVs both promoted the COL2A1 and β-catenin protein accumulation in articular cartilage, and that was further enhanced by combined treatment with rSMSC-EVs and ICA.

Conclusion

Our findings highlight the promising potential of using combined treatment with ICA and rSMSC-EVs for promoting osteochondral repair.

The Resistance Training Effects on Skeletal Muscle Stem Cells in Older Adult: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to examine the effects of resistance exercise training on muscle stem cells in older adults. A database search was performed (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar) to identify controlled clinical trials in English language. The mean difference (MD) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) and overall effect size were calculated for all comparisons. The PEDro scale was used to assess the methodological quality. Nineteen studies were included in the review. The meta-analysis found a significant effect of resistance training (RT) on muscle stem cells in the elderly (difference in means=-0.008, Z=-3.415, P=0.001). Also, muscle stem cells changes were similar in men and women (difference in means=-0.004, Z=-1.558, P=0.119) and significant changes occur in type II muscle fibers (difference in means=-0.017, Z=-7.048, P=0.000). Resistance-type exercise training significantly increased muscle stem cells content in intervention group that this result is similar in men and womenthis increase occurred more in type II muscle fibers.

Low-load blood flow-restricted resistance exercise produces fiber type-independent hypertrophy and improves muscle functional capacity in older individuals

Low-load blood flow-restricted resistance exercise (BFRRE) constitutes an effective means to produce skeletal muscle hypertrophy. Nonetheless, its applicability to counteract the age-related skeletal muscle decay at a cellular level, is not clear. Therefore, we investigated the effect of BFRRE on muscle fiber morphology, integrated muscle protein synthesis, muscle stem cells (MuSCs), myonuclear content, and muscle functional capacity in healthy older individuals. Twenty-three participants with a mean age of 66 yr (56-75 yr) were randomized to 6 wk of supervised BFRRE (3 sessions per week) or non-exercise control (CON). Biopsies were collected from the vastus lateralis before and after the intervention. Immunofluorescent microscopy was utilized to assess muscle fiber type-specific cross-sectional area (CSA) as well as MuSC and myonuclear content. Deuterium oxide was orally administered throughout the intervention period, enabling assessment of integrated myofibrillar and connective tissue protein fractional synthesis rate (FSR). BFRRE produced uniform ∼20% increases in the fiber CSA of both type I and type II fibers (P < 0.05). This occurred concomitantly with improvements in both maximal muscle strength and strength-endurance capacity but in the absence of increased MuSC content and myonuclear addition. The observed muscle fiber hypertrophy was not mirrored by increases in either myofibrillar or connective tissue FSR. In conclusion, BFRRE proved effective in stimulating skeletal muscle growth and increased muscle function in older individuals, which advocates for the use of BFRRE as a countermeasure of age-related deterioration of skeletal muscle mass and function.NEW & NOTEWORTHY We provide novel insight, that as little as 6 wk of low-load blood flow-restricted resistance exercise (BFRRE) produces pronounced fiber type-independent hypertrophy, alongside improvements across a broad range of muscle functional capacity in older individuals. Notably, since these results were obtained with a modest exercise volume and in a very time-efficient manner, BFRRE may represent a potent exercise strategy to counteract age-related muscle decay.

Comparison of Conservative Interventions for Proximal Hamstring Tendinopathy: A Systematic Review and Recommendations for Rehabilitation

Knowledge of muscular forces and adaptations with hamstring-specific exercises can optimize exercise prescription and tendon remodeling; however, studies investigating the effectiveness of the current conservative management of proximal hamstring tendinopathy (PHT) and outcomes are lacking. The purpose of this review is to provide insights into the efficacy of conservative therapeutic interventions in the management of PHT. In January 2022, databases including PubMed, Web of Science, CINAHL, and Embase were searched for studies assessing the effectiveness of conservative intervention compared with that of a placebo or combination of treatments on functional outcomes and pain. Studies that performed conservative management (exercise therapy and/or physical therapy modalities) in adults 18-65 years were included. Studies that performed surgical interventions or whose subjects had complete hamstring rupture/avulsion greater than a 2 cm displacement were excluded. A total of 13 studies were included: five studies compared exercise interventions, while eight studies investigated a multimodal approach of either shockwave therapy and exercise or a hybrid model incorporating exercise, shockwave therapy, and other modalities, such as ultrasound, trigger point needling, or instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization. This review supports the notion that the conservative management of PHT may best be optimized through a multimodal approach incorporating a combination of tendon-specific loading at an increased length, lumbopelvic stabilization exercises, and extracorporeal shockwave therapy. With regard to hamstring-specific exercise selection, PHT may be optimally managed by including a progressive loading program at combined angles of the hip flexion at 110 degrees and the knee flexion between 45 and 90 degrees.

Impaired muscle stem cell function and abnormal myogenesis in acquired myopathies

Skeletal muscle possesses a high plasticity and a remarkable regenerative capacity that relies mainly on muscle stem cells (MuSCs). Molecular and cellular components of the MuSC niche, such as immune cells, play key roles to coordinate MuSC function and to orchestrate muscle regeneration. An abnormal infiltration of immune cells and/or imbalance of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines could lead to MuSC dysfunctions that could have long lasting effects on muscle function. Different genetic variants were shown to cause muscular dystrophies that intrinsically compromise MuSC function and/or disturb their microenvironment leading to impaired muscle regeneration that contributes to disease progression. Alternatively, many acquired myopathies caused by comorbidities (e.g., cardiopulmonary or kidney diseases), chronic inflammation/infection, or side effects of different drugs can also perturb MuSC function and their microenvironment. The goal of this review is to comprehensively summarize the current knowledge on acquired myopathies and their impact on MuSC function. We further describe potential therapeutic strategies to restore MuSC regenerative capacity.

Impact of resistance training on muscle fatigue in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients during dynamic fatigue protocol

BACKGROUND

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is often accompanied with several neuromuscular complications of which muscle fatigue is one of the scantily studied and less-explored complication of this disease.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effects of resistance training (RT) on muscle fatigue markers from electromyography (EMG) and capillary blood in T2DM patients.

METHODS

Forty T2DM patients were randomized to either RT (n = 20) or control group (n = 20). They were assessed for EMG indices of muscle fatigue along with blood lactate (at three time points: Lactate_pre, Lactate_peak, Lactate_post) during a dynamic fatigue protocol. Dynamic fatigue protocol consisted of 5 sets of leg press exercise at 10 repetition maximum intensity. RT group performed moderate intensity (65%-75% 1 repetition maximum) RT 3 times/week for 12 weeks. Control group followed usual routine.

RESULTS

Findings revealed that EMG amplitude (root mean square) and Dimitrov's muscle fatigue index (FI_nsmk) decreased significantly while median frequency (MF) increased significantly during the dynamic fatigue protocol for both vastus medialis (Root mean square, p = .02; FI_nsmk, p = .001; MF, p < .001) and vastus lateralis muscle (Root mean square, p= .04,FI_nsmk,p = .01; MF, p < .001) post-RT. Blood lactate responses did not change after RT (Lactate_pre, p = .55; Lactate_peak, p = .91; Lactate_post, p = .33).

CONCLUSIONS

Findings of the present study illustrated that moderate intensity RT led to a significant reduction muscle fatigue in knee extensor muscles of T2DM patients. These results reinforce the utilization of RT in patients with T2DM.

Contribution of muscle satellite cells to sarcopenia

Sarcopenia, a disorder characterized by age-related muscle loss and reduced muscle strength, is associated with decreased individual independence and quality of life, as well as a high risk of death. Skeletal muscle houses a normally mitotically quiescent population of adult stem cells called muscle satellite cells (MuSCs) that are responsible for muscle maintenance, growth, repair, and regeneration throughout the life cycle. Patients with sarcopenia are often exhibit dysregulation of MuSCs homeostasis. In this review, we focus on the etiology, assessment, and treatment of sarcopenia. We also discuss phenotypic and regulatory mechanisms of MuSC quiescence, activation, and aging states, as well as the controversy between MuSC depletion and sarcopenia. Finally, we give a multi-dimensional treatment strategy for sarcopenia based on improving MuSC function.

Nutritional Regulation of Muscle Stem Cells in Exercise and Disease: The Role of Protein and Amino Acid Dietary Supplementation

Human skeletal muscle is a remarkedly plastic tissue that has a high capacity to adapt in response to various stimuli. These adaptations are due in part to the function of muscle-resident stem/progenitor cells. Skeletal muscle regeneration and adaptation is facilitated by the activation and expansion of muscle stem cells (MuSCs). MuSC fate is regulated by signals released from cells in their niche, such as fibro-adipogenic progenitors (FAPs), as well as a variety of non-cellular niche components. Sufficient dietary protein consumption is critical for maximizing skeletal muscle adaptation to exercise and maintaining skeletal muscle in disease; however, the role of dietary protein in altering MuSC and FAP responses to exercise in healthy populations and skeletal muscle disease states requires more research. The present review provides an overview of this emerging field and suggestions for future directions. The current literature suggests that in response to resistance exercise, protein supplementation has been shown to increase MuSC content and the MuSC response to acute exercise. Similarly, protein supplementation augments the increase in MuSC content following resistance training. Endurance exercise, conversely, is an area of research that is sparse with respect to the interaction of protein supplementation and exercise on muscle stem/progenitor cell fate. Initial evidence suggests that protein supplementation augments the early myogenic response to acute endurance exercise but does not enhance the MuSC response to endurance training. Resistance training increases the number of proliferating FAPs with no additional effect of protein supplementation. Future research should continue to focus on the nutritional regulation of skeletal muscle stem/progenitor cell fate paired with studies examining the effects of exercise on a variety of human populations.

Association of muscle fiber type with measures of obesity: A systematic review

Obesity derives from an extended period of positive energy imbalance due to a complex interplay of environmental and biological factors. Muscle fiber type and physiology have been hypothesized to affect metabolism and energy expenditure and thus to affect an individual's propensity to gain weight. However, there have been conflicting reports regarding a relationship between muscle fiber type and obesity. Here, we systematically reviewed literature investigating this topic from PubMed, Web of Science, and EMBASE. Of these, 32 articles were included in our final review and analysis. Most studies (22/32) reported a significant relationship between muscle fiber-type proportion and a measure of obesity. Overall, there was a significant negative relationship between the proportion of type I fibers and body mass index (BMI) and a significant positive relationship between the proportion of type IIX fibers and BMI. Moreover, between-group comparisons indicated a greater prevalence of type IIX fibers and a lower prevalence of type I fibers in patients living with obesity relative to lean individuals. These significant relationships were confirmed in a meta-analysis of these data. The causal nature of these associations remains to be evaluated.

Daily protein-polyphenol ingestion increases daily myofibrillar protein synthesis rates and promotes early muscle functional gains during resistance training

Factors underpinning the time-course of resistance-type exercise training (RET) adaptations are not fully understood. This study hypothesized that consuming a twice-daily protein-polyphenol beverage (PPB; n = 15; age, 24 ± 1 yr; BMI, 22.3 ± 0.7 kg·m-2) previously shown to accelerate recovery from muscle damage and increase daily myofibrillar protein synthesis (MyoPS) rates would accelerate early (10 sessions) improvements in muscle function and potentiate quadriceps volume and muscle fiber cross-sectional area (fCSA) following 30 unilateral RET sessions in healthy, recreationally active, adults. Versus isocaloric placebo (PLA; n = 14; age, 25 ± 2 yr; BMI, 23.9 ± 1.0 kg·m-2), PPB increased 48 h MyoPS rates after the first RET session measured using deuterated water (2.01 ± 0.15 vs. 1.51 ± 0.16%·day-1, respectively; P < 0.05). In addition, PPB increased isokinetic muscle function over 10 sessions of training relative to the untrained control leg (%U) from 99.9 ± 1.8 pretraining to 107.2 ± 2.4%U at session 10 (vs. 102.6 ± 3.9 to 100.8 ± 2.4%U at session 10 in PLA; interaction P < 0.05). Pre to posttraining, PPB increased type II fCSA (PLA: 120.8 ± 8.2 to 109.5 ± 8.6%U; PPB: 92.8 ± 6.2 to 108.4 ± 9.7%U; interaction P < 0.05), but the gain in quadriceps muscle volume was similar between groups. Similarly, PPB did not further increase peak isometric torque, muscle function, or MyoPS measured posttraining. This suggests that although PPB increases MyoPS and early adaptation, it may not influence longer term adaptations to unilateral RET.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Using a unilateral model of resistance training, we show for the first time that a protein-polyphenol beverage increases initial rates of myofibrillar protein synthesis and promotes early functional improvements. Following a prolonged period of training, this strategy also increases type II fiber hypertrophy and causes large individual variation in gains in quadricep muscle cross-sectional area.

Stimuli for Adaptations in Muscle Length and the Length Range of Active Force Exertion-A Narrative Review

Treatment strategies and training regimens, which induce longitudinal muscle growth and increase the muscles’ length range of active force exertion, are important to improve muscle function and to reduce muscle strain injuries in clinical populations and in athletes with limited muscle extensibility. Animal studies have shown several specific loading strategies resulting in longitudinal muscle fiber growth by addition of sarcomeres in series. Currently, such strategies are also applied to humans in order to induce similar adaptations. However, there is no clear scientific evidence that specific strategies result in longitudinal growth of human muscles. Therefore, the question remains what triggers longitudinal muscle growth in humans. The aim of this review was to identify strategies that induce longitudinal human muscle growth. For this purpose, literature was reviewed and summarized with regard to the following topics: (1) Key determinants of typical muscle length and the length range of active force exertion; (2) Information on typical muscle growth and the effects of mechanical loading on growth and adaptation of muscle and tendinous tissues in healthy animals and humans; (3) The current knowledge and research gaps on the regulation of longitudinal muscle growth; and (4) Potential strategies to induce longitudinal muscle growth. The following potential strategies and important aspects that may positively affect longitudinal muscle growth were deduced: (1) Muscle length at which the loading is performed seems to be decisive, i.e., greater elongations after active or passive mechanical loading at long muscle length are expected; (2) Concentric, isometric and eccentric exercises may induce longitudinal muscle growth by stimulating different muscular adaptations (i.e., increases in fiber cross-sectional area and/or fiber length). Mechanical loading intensity also plays an important role. All three training strategies may increase tendon stiffness, but whether and how these changes may influence muscle growth remains to be elucidated. (3) The approach to combine stretching with activation seems promising (e.g., static stretching and electrical stimulation, loaded inter-set stretching) and warrants further research. Finally, our work shows the need for detailed investigation of the mechanisms of growth of pennate muscles, as those may longitudinally grow by both trophy and addition of sarcomeres in series.

The Role of Satellite Cells in Skeletal Muscle Regeneration-The Effect of Exercise and Age

Simple Summary

Studies describing the effects of various forms of exercise and age on muscle regeneration were reviewed. Satellite cells are a heterogeneous group of cells that includes stem cells and skeletal muscle progenitor cells. Each skeletal muscle fiber has its own pool of satellite cells that remain inactive until the muscle is damaged. Minor damage within the cell membrane of muscle fibers is patched by fusing intracellular vesicles with the damaged sarcolemma. More severe muscle damage initiates a multistep regeneration process in which satellite cells play an essential role. The condition that initiates the cascade of reactions is the formation of inflammation at the structural discontinuity site, resulting in satellite cell activation. The multitude of reactions and pathways occurring during this process means that many different substances are involved in it and control it. Not all of them are well-understood yet. In parallel, the body’s own population of satellite cells is being rebuilt so that more fibers can be regenerated in the future. Athletes and the elderly are primarily at risk for muscle damage, and pathologies in muscle fiber regeneration cause serious diseases.

Abstract

The population of satellite cells (mSCs) is highly diversified. The cells comprising it differ in their ability to regenerate their own population and differentiate, as well as in the properties they exhibit. The heterogeneity of this group of cells is evidenced by multiple differentiating markers that enable their recognition, classification, labeling, and characterization. One of the main tasks of satellite cells is skeletal muscle regeneration. Myofibers are often damaged during vigorous exercise in people who participate in sports activities. The number of satellite cells and the speed of the regeneration processes that depend on them affect the time structure of an athlete’s training. This process depends on inflammatory cells. The multitude of reactions and pathways that occur during the regeneration process results in the participation and control of many factors that are activated and secreted during muscle fiber damage and at different stages of its regeneration. However, not all of them are well understood yet. This paper presents the current state of knowledge on satellite cell-dependent skeletal muscle regeneration. Studies describing the effects of various forms of exercise and age on this process were reviewed.

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.

Myofibre Hypertrophy in the Absence of Changes to Satellite Cell Content Following Concurrent Exercise Training in Young Healthy Men

Concurrent exercise training has been suggested to create an ‘interference effect,’ attenuating resistance training-based skeletal muscle adaptations, including myofibre hypertrophy. Satellite cells support myofibre hypertrophy and are influenced by exercise mode. To determine whether satellite cells contribute to the ‘interference effect’ changes in satellite cell and myonuclear content were assessed following a period of training in 32 recreationally active males (age: 25 ± 5 year; body mass index: 24 ± 3 kg⋅m^–2; mean ± SD) who undertook 12-week of either isolated (3 d⋅w^–1) resistance (RES; n = 10), endurance (END; n = 10), or alternate day (6 d⋅w^–1) concurrent (CET, n = 12) training. Skeletal muscle biopsies were obtained pre-intervention and after 2, 8, and 12 weeks of training to determine fibre type-specific cross-sectional area (CSA), satellite cell content (Pax7⁺DAPI⁺), and myonuclei (DAPI⁺) using immunofluorescence microscopy. After 12 weeks, myofibre CSA increased in all training conditions in type II (P = 0.0149) and mixed fibres (P = 0.0102), with no difference between conditions. Satellite cell content remained unchanged after training in both type I and type II fibres. Significant correlations were observed between increases in fibre type-specific myonuclear content and CSA of Type I (r = 0.63, P < 0.0001), Type II (r = 0.69, P < 0.0001), and mixed fibres (r = 0.72, P < 0.0001). Resistance, endurance, and concurrent training induce similar myofibre hypertrophy in the absence of satellite cell and myonuclear pool expansion. These findings suggest that myonuclear accretion via satellite cell fusion is positively correlated with hypertrophy after 12 weeks of concurrent training, and that individuals with more myonuclear content displayed greater myofibre hypertrophy.

Frequent blood flow restricted training not to failure and to failure induces similar gains in myonuclei and muscle mass

The purpose of the present study was to compare the effects of short-term high-frequency failure vs non-failure blood flow-restricted resistance exercise (BFRRE) on changes in satellite cells (SCs), myonuclei, muscle size, and strength. Seventeen untrained men performed four sets of BFRRE to failure (Failure) with one leg and not to failure (Non-failure; 30-15-15-15 repetitions) with the other leg using knee-extensions at 20% of one repetition maximum (1RM). Fourteen sessions were distributed over two 5-day blocks, separated by a 10-day rest period. Muscle samples obtained before, at mid-training, and 10-day post-intervention (Post10) were analyzed for muscle fiber area (MFA), myonuclei, and SC. Muscle size and echo intensity of m.rectus femoris (RF) and m.vastus lateralis (VL) were measured by ultrasonography, and knee extension strength with 1RM and maximal isometric contraction (MVC) up until Post24. Both protocols increased myonuclear numbers in type-1 (12%-17%) and type-2 fibers (20%-23%), and SC in type-1 (92%-134%) and type-2 fibers (23%-48%) at Post10 (p < 0.05). RF and VL size increased by 5%-10% in both legs at Post10 to Post24, whereas the MFA of type-1 fibers in Failure was decreased at Post10 (-10 ± 16%; p = 0.02). Echo intensity increased by ~20% in both legs during Block1 (p < 0.001) and was ~8 to 11% below baseline at Post24 (p = 0.001-0.002). MVC and 1RM decreased by 5%-10% after Block1, but increased in both legs by 6%-11% at Post24 (p < 0.05). In conclusion, both short-term high-frequency failure and non-failure BFRRE induced increases in SCs, in myonuclei content, muscle size, and strength, concomitant with decreased echo intensity. Intriguingly, the responses were delayed and peaked 10-24 days after the training intervention. Our findings may shed light on the mechanisms involved in resistance exercise-induced overreaching and supercompensation.

Effect of carbohydrate-protein supplementation on endurance training adaptations

Purpose

To examine the influence of post-exercise protein feeding upon the adaptive response to endurance exercise training.

Methods

In a randomised parallel group design, 25 healthy men and women completed 6 weeks of endurance exercise training by running on a treadmill for 30–60 min at 70–75% maximal oxygen uptake (VO_2max) 4 times/week. Participants ingested 1.6 g per kilogram of body mass (g kg BM⁻¹) of carbohydrate (CHO) or an isocaloric carbohydrate–protein solution (CHO-P; 0.8 g carbohydrate kg BM⁻¹ + 0.8 g protein kg BM⁻¹) immediately and 1 h post-exercise. Expired gas, blood and muscle biopsy samples were taken at baseline and follow-up.

Results

Exercise training improved VO_2max in both groups (p ≤ 0.001), but this increment was not different between groups either in absolute terms or relative to body mass (0.2 ± 0.2 L min⁻¹ and 3.0 ± 2 mL kg⁻¹ min⁻¹, respectively). No change occurred in plasma albumin concentration from baseline to follow-up with CHO-P (4.18 ± 0.18 to 4.23 ± 0.17 g dL⁻¹) or CHO (4.17 ± 0.17 to 4.12 ± 0.22 g dL⁻¹; interaction: p > 0.05). Mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) gene expression was up-regulated in CHO-P (+ 46%; p = 0.025) relative to CHO (+ 4%) following exercise training.

Conclusion

Post-exercise protein supplementation up-regulated the expression of mTOR in skeletal muscle over 6 weeks of endurance exercise training. However, the magnitude of improvement in VO_2max was similar between groups.

Effects of alternating blood flow restricted training and heavy-load resistance training on myofiber morphology and mechanical muscle function

To investigate if short-term block-structured training consisting of alternating weeks of blood flow restricted low-load resistance training (BFR-RT) and conventional free-flow heavy-load resistance training (HL-RT) leads to superior gains in mechanical muscle function, myofiber size, and satellite cell (SC) content and myonuclear number compared with HL-RT alone. Eighteen active young participants (women/men: 5/13, 23 ± 1.2 yr) were randomized to 6 wk (22 sessions) of lower limb HL-RT [70-90% one repetition maximum (1-RM)] (HRT, n = 9) or block-structured training alternating weekly between BFR-RT (20% 1-RM) and HL-RT (BFR-HRT, n = 9). Maximal isometric knee extensor strength (MVC) and muscle biopsies (VL) were obtained pre- and posttraining to examine changes in muscle strength, myofiber cross-sectional area (CSA), myonuclear (MN) number, and SC content. MVC increased in both training groups (BFR-HRT: +12%, HRT: +7%; P < 0.05). Type II myofiber CSA increased similarly (+16%) in BFR-HRT and HRT (P < 0.05), while gains in type I CSA were observed following HRT only (+12%, P < 0.05). In addition, myonuclear number remained unchanged, whereas SC content increased in type II myofibers following HRT (+59%, P < 0.05). Short-term alternating BFR-RT and HL-RT did not produce superior gains in muscle strength or myofiber size compared with HL-RT alone. Noticeably, however, conventional HL-RT could be periodically replaced by low-load BFR-RT without compromising training-induced gains in maximal muscle strength and type II myofiber size, respectively.NEW & NOTEWORTHY The present data demonstrate that periodically substituting heavy-load resistance training (HL-RT) with low-load blood flow restricted resistance training (BFR-RT) leads to similar gains in type II myofiber CSA and muscle strength as achieved by HL-RT alone. Furthermore, we have for the first time evaluated myonuclear content and myonuclear domain size before and after training intervention across separate fiber size clusters and found no within-cluster changes for these parameters with training.

Satellite cells in ageing: use it or lose it

Individuals that maintain healthy skeletal tissue tend to live healthier, happier lives as proper muscle function enables maintenance of independence and actuation of autonomy. The onset of skeletal muscle decline begins around the age of 30, and muscle atrophy is associated with a number of serious morbidities and mortalities. Satellite cells are responsible for regeneration of skeletal muscle and enter a reversible non-dividing state of quiescence under homeostatic conditions. In response to injury, satellite cells are able to activate and re-enter the cell cycle, creating new cells to repair and create nascent muscle fibres while preserving a small population that can return to quiescence for future regenerative demands. However, in aged muscle, satellite cells that experience prolonged quiescence will undergo programmed cellular senescence, an irreversible non-dividing state that handicaps the regenerative capabilities of muscle. This review examines how periodic activation and cycling of satellite cells through exercise can mitigate senescence acquisition and myogenic decline.

Recent advances in understanding resistance exercise training-induced skeletal muscle hypertrophy in humans

Skeletal muscle plays a pivotal role in the maintenance of physical and metabolic health and, critically, mobility. Accordingly, strategies focused on increasing the quality and quantity of skeletal muscle are relevant, and resistance exercise is foundational to the process of functional hypertrophy. Much of our current understanding of skeletal muscle hypertrophy can be attributed to the development and utilization of stable isotopically labeled tracers. We know that resistance exercise and sufficient protein intake act synergistically and provide the most effective stimuli to enhance skeletal muscle mass; however, the molecular intricacies that underpin the tremendous response variability to resistance exercise-induced hypertrophy are complex. The purpose of this review is to discuss recent studies with the aim of shedding light on key regulatory mechanisms that dictate hypertrophic gains in skeletal muscle mass. We also aim to provide a brief up-to-date summary of the recent advances in our understanding of skeletal muscle hypertrophy in response to resistance training in humans.

TRIENNIAL GROWTH SYMPOSIUM: THE NUTRITION OF MUSCLE GROWTH: Impacts of nutrition on the proliferation and differentiation of satellite cells in livestock species1,2

Nutrition and other external factors are known to have a marked effect on growth of skeletal muscle, modulated, at least in part, through effects on satellite cells. Satellite cells and their embryonic precursors play an integral role in both prenatal and postnatal skeletal muscle growth of mammals. Changes in maternal nutrition can impact embryonic muscle progenitor cells which ultimately impacts both prenatal and postnatal skeletal muscle development. Satellite cells are important in postnatal skeletal muscle growth as they support the hypertrophy of existing myofibers. Hypertrophy of existing fibers is the only mechanism of postnatal muscle growth because muscle fiber number is fixed at birth and fiber nuclei have exited the cell cycle. Because fiber nuclei do not divide, additional nuclei required for hypertrophy must be acquired from satellite cells. To date, little research has aimed at determining whether nutrition directly impacts satellite cell populations within skeletal muscle of livestock species. However, it is well established that nutrition alters circulating concentrations of various growth factors such as insulin-like growth factor 1, epidermal growth factor, hepatocyte growth factor, and fibroblast growth factor. Each of these different growth factors impacts satellite cell proliferation and/or activation, indicating that nutrition likely plays a large role in skeletal muscle growth through impacting the satellite cell pool in both prenatal and postnatal growth. The relationship among nutrition, growth factors, and satellite cells relative to skeletal muscle growth is an important area of research that warrants further consideration.

Strength Training Effects on Muscular Regeneration after ACL Reconstruction

PURPOSE

Protracted quadriceps muscle atrophy is observed after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACL-R). The aim of this study was to assess if quadriceps strength training with eccentric overload (CON/ECC) is more efficient to induce muscle regeneration after ACL-R than conventional concentric/eccentric (CON/ECC) strength training.

METHODS

Biopsies from the vastus lateralis muscle were obtained from 37 recreational athletes after 12 wk of regular rehabilitation after ACL-R and again after 12 wk with twice a week of either conventional CON/ECC (n = 16) or CON/ECC (n = 21) one-legged supervised leg-press training. Immunohistochemical analyses were used to determine satellite cell (SC) number (Pax7); activated SC number (Pax7/MyoD); fibers expressing myosin heavy-chain (MHC) I and II, MHC neonatal, and fiber cross-sectional area. Magnetic resonance imaging was performed to measure quadriceps cross-sectional area and isokinetic testing for the measurement of quadriceps strength.

RESULTS

CON/ECC induced a significantly (P = 0.002) greater increase in quadriceps cross-sectional area than did CON/ECC. There also was a significant increase in the fiber cross-sectional areas of all fiber types and in quadriceps strength, but without significant difference between training groups. Only CON/ECC training led to a significant (P < 0.05) increase in percent type I fibers. After training, the number of MHC I/MHCneo fibers was significantly (P < 0.05) greater in the CON/ECC than after in the CON/ECC group. The proportion of hybrid fibers tended to decrease in both groups; percent type II fibers, SC number, and activated SC number remained unchanged.

CONCLUSIONS

CON/ECC leads to significantly greater muscle hypertrophy compared with CON/ECC, but without the hypothesized enhancing effect on SC activation. At the same time, CON/ECC+ induces a less favorable slower muscle phenotype for strong and fast movements.

Myokines in Home-Based Functional Electrical Stimulation-Induced Recovery of Skeletal Muscle in Elderly and Permanent Denervation

Neuromuscular disorders, disuse, inadequate nutrition, metabolic diseases, cancer and aging produce muscle atrophy and this implies that there are different types of molecular triggers and signaling pathways for muscle wasting. Exercise and muscle contractions may counteract muscle atrophy by releasing a group of peptides, termed myokines, to protect the functionality and to enhance the exercise capacity of skeletal muscle. In this review, we are looking at the role of myokines in the recovery of permanent denervated and elderly skeletal muscle tissue. Since sub-clinical denervation events contribute to both atrophy and the decreased contractile speed of aged muscle, we saw a parallel to spinal cord injury and decided to look at both groups together. The muscle from lifelong active seniors has more muscle bulk and more slow fiber-type groupings than those of sedentary seniors, demonstrating that physical activity maintains slow motoneurons that reinnervate the transiently denervated muscle fibers. Furthermore, we summarized the evidence that muscle degeneration occur with irreversible Conus and Cauda Equina syndrome, a spinal cord injury in which the human leg muscles may be permanently disconnected from the peripheral nervous system. In these patients, suffering with an estreme case of muscle disuse, a complete loss of muscle fibers occurs within five to ten years after injury. Their recovered tetanic contractility, induced by home-based Functional Electrical Stimulation, can restore the muscle size and function in compliant Spinal Cord Injury patients, allowing them to perform electrical stimulation-supported stand-up training. Myokines are produced and released by muscle fibers under contraction and exert both local and systemic effects. Changes in patterns of myokine secretion, particularly of IGF-1 isoforms, occur in long-term Spinal Cord Injury persons and also in very aged people. Their modulation in Spinal Cord Injury and late aging are also key factors of home-based Functional Electrical Stimulation - mediated muscle recovery. Thus, Functional Electrical Stimulation should be prescribed in critical care units and nursing facilities, if persons are unable or reluctant to exercise. This will result in less frequent hospitalizations and a reduced burden on patients' families and public health services.

Effect of Whey Protein Supplementation on Physical Performance and Body Composition in Army Initial Entry Training Soldiers

We investigated the effects of whey protein (WP) supplementation on body composition and physical performance in soldiers participating in Army Initial Entry Training (IET). Sixty-nine, male United States Army soldiers volunteered for supplementation with either twice daily whey protein (WP, 77 g/day protein, ~580 kcal/day; n = 34, age = 19 ± 1 year, height = 173 ± 6 cm, weight = 73.4 ± 12.7 kg) or energy-matched carbohydrate (CHO) drinks (CHO, 127 g/day carbohydrate, ~580 kcal/day; n = 35, age = 19 ± 1 year, height = 173 ± 5 cm, weight = 72.3 ± 10.9 kg) for eight weeks during IET. Physical performance was evaluated using the Army Physical Fitness Test during weeks two and eight. Body composition was assessed using 7-site skinfold assessment during weeks one and nine. Post-testing push-up performance averaged 7 repetitions higher in the WP compared to the CHO group (F = 10.1, p < 0.001) when controlling for baseline. There was a significant decrease in fat mass at post-training (F = 4.63, p = 0.04), but no significant change in run performance (F = 3.50, p = 0.065) or fat-free mass (F = 0.70, p = 0.41). Effect sizes for fat-free mass gains were large for both the WP (Cohen's d = 0.44) and CHO (Cohen's d = 0.42) groups. WP had a large effect on fat mass (FM) loss (Cohen's d = -0.67), while CHO had a medium effect (Cohen's d = -0.40). Twice daily supplementation with WP improved push-up performance and potentiated reductions in fat mass during IET training in comparison to CHO supplementation.

Chronic Adaptations to Eccentric Training: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Resistance training is an integral component of physical preparation for athletes. A growing body of evidence indicates that eccentric strength training methods induce novel stimuli for neuromuscular adaptations.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this systematic review was to determine the effects of eccentric training in comparison to concentric-only or traditional (i.e. constrained by concentric strength) resistance training.

METHODS

Searches were performed using the electronic databases MEDLINE via EBSCO, PubMed and SPORTDiscus via EBSCO. Full journal articles investigating the long-term (≥4 weeks) effects of eccentric training in healthy (absence of injury or illness during the 4 weeks preceding the training intervention), adult (17-35 years), human participants were selected for the systematic review. A total of 40 studies conformed to these criteria.

RESULTS

Eccentric training elicits greater improvements in muscle strength, although in a largely mode-specific manner. Superior enhancements in power and stretch-shortening cycle (SSC) function have also been reported. Eccentric training is at least as effective as other modalities in increasing muscle cross-sectional area (CSA), while the pattern of hypertrophy appears nuanced and increased CSA may occur longitudinally within muscle (i.e. the addition of sarcomeres in series). There appears to be a preferential increase in the size of type II muscle fibres and the potential to exert a unique effect upon fibre type transitions. Qualitative and quantitative changes in tendon tissue that may be related to the magnitude of strain imposed have also been reported with eccentric training.

CONCLUSIONS

Eccentric training is a potent stimulus for enhancements in muscle mechanical function, and muscle-tendon unit (MTU) morphological and architectural adaptations. The inclusion of eccentric loads not constrained by concentric strength appears to be superior to traditional resistance training in improving variables associated with strength, power and speed performance.

Effect of 8-week leucine supplementation and resistance exercise training on muscle hypertrophy and satellite cell activation in rats

We investigated the effects of regular leucine intake and/or resistance exercise training on skeletal muscle hypertrophy and satellite cell activity after the administration of different doses of leucine. Ten-week-old Sprague-Dawley rats were assigned to six groups (n = 7 per group): a control group (Con), two groups receiving either 10% (0.135 g/kg.wt) (Leu10) or 50% (0.675 g/kg.wt) (Leu50) leucine supplementation, and three exercise groups receiving 0% (Ex), 10% (Leu10Ex), and 50% (Leu50Ex) leucine supplementation. The rats performed ladder climbing exercises thrice per week for 8 weeks, and received leucine supplements at the same time daily. Muscle phenotypes were assessed by immunohistochemistry. MyoD, myogenin, and IGF1 protein levels were determined by western blot. The Leu50Ex group displayed significantly higher numbers of positive embryonic myosin fibers (0.35 ± 0.08, 250%) and myonuclei (3.29 ± 0.3, 118.7%) than all other groups. And exercise training groups increased the cross-sectional area, the number of satellite cells and protein expression of MyoD, myogenin, and IGF1alpha relative to the Control group (P < 0.05). However, Only leucine supplementation group did not increase skeletal muscle hypertrophy and satellite cell activity, regardless of the dose (P > 0.05). Leucine intake accompanied by regular exercise training may increase satellite cell activation in skeletal muscles, and improve muscle quality more effectively than continuous leucine ingestion alone.

Myonuclear Domain Flexibility Challenges Rigid Assumptions on Satellite Cell Contribution to Skeletal Muscle Fiber Hypertrophy

Satellite cell-mediated myonuclear accretion is thought to be required for skeletal muscle fiber hypertrophy, and even drive hypertrophy by preceding growth. Recent studies in humans and rodents provide evidence that challenge this axiom. Specifically, Type 2 muscle fibers reliably demonstrate a substantial capacity to hypertrophy in the absence of myonuclear accretion, challenging the notion of a tightly regulated myonuclear domain (i.e., area that each myonucleus transcriptionally governs). In fact, a “myonuclear domain ceiling”, or upper limit of transcriptional output per nucleus to support hypertrophy, has yet to be identified. Satellite cells respond to muscle damage, and also play an important role in extracellular matrix remodeling during loading-induced hypertrophy. We postulate that robust satellite cell activation and proliferation in response to mechanical loading is largely for these purposes. Future work will aim to elucidate the mechanisms by which Type 2 fibers can hypertrophy without additional myonuclei, the extent to which Type 1 fibers can grow without myonuclear accretion, and whether a true myonuclear domain ceiling exists.

Remodeling of muscle fibers approaching the human myotendinous junction

The myotendinous junction (MTJ) is at high risk of strain injuries, due to high amounts of energy that is transferred through this structure. The risk of strain injury is significantly reduced by heavy resistance training (HRT), indicating a remodeling capacity of MTJ. We investigated the degree of remodeling of muscle fibers near the human MTJ. In 8 individuals, samples were taken from the semitendinosus and gracilis MTJ and they were stained immunohistochemically for myonuclei (DAPI), fibroblasts (TCF7L2), and satellite cells (CD56). A high portion of the muscle fibers adjacent to the MTJ contained a centrally located myonucleus (47 ± 8%, mean ± SD) and half of the muscle fibers were CD56 positive. The number of satellite cells and fibroblasts were not higher than what has previously been reported from muscle bellies. The immunohistochemical findings suggest that the rate of remodeling of muscle fibers near the MTJ is very high. The finding that there was no increased number of satellite cells and fibroblasts could be explained as a dynamic phenomenon. The effect of HRT should be evaluated in a randomized setting.

Post-Game High Protein Intake May Improve Recovery of Football-Specific Performance during a Congested Game Fixture: Results from the PRO-FOOTBALL Study

The effects of protein supplementation on performance recovery and inflammatory responses during a simulated one-week in-season microcycle with two games (G1, G2) performed three days apart were examined. Twenty football players participated in two trials, receiving either milk protein concentrate (1.15 and 0.26 g/kg on game and training days, respectively) (PRO) or an energy-matched placebo (1.37 and 0.31 g/kg of carbohydrate on game and training days, respectively) (PLA) according to a randomized, repeated-measures, crossover, double-blind design. Each trial included two games and four daily practices. Speed, jump height, isokinetic peak torque, and muscle soreness of knee flexors (KF) and extensors (KE) were measured before G1 and daily thereafter for six days. Blood was drawn before G1 and daily thereafter. Football-specific locomotor activity and heart rate were monitored using GPS technology during games and practices. The two games resulted in reduced speed (by 3–17%), strength of knee flexors (by 12–23%), and jumping performance (by 3–10%) throughout recovery, in both trials. Average heart rate and total distance covered during games remained unchanged in PRO but not in PLA. Moreover, PRO resulted in a change of smaller magnitude in high-intensity running at the end of G2 (75–90 min vs. 0–15 min) compared to PLA (P = 0.012). KE concentric strength demonstrated a more prolonged decline in PLA (days 1 and 2 after G1, P = 0.014–0.018; days 1, 2 and 3 after G2, P = 0.016–0.037) compared to PRO (days 1 after G1, P = 0.013; days 1 and 2 after G2, P = 0.014–0.033) following both games. KF eccentric strength decreased throughout recovery after G1 (PLA: P=0.001–0.047—PRO: P =0.004–0.22) in both trials, whereas after G2 it declined throughout recovery in PLA (P = 0.000–0.013) but only during the first two days (P = 0.000–0.014) in PRO. No treatment effect was observed for delayed onset of muscle soreness, leukocyte counts, and creatine kinase activity. PRO resulted in a faster recovery of protein and lipid peroxidation markers after both games. Reduced glutathione demonstrated a more short-lived reduction after G2 in PRO compared to PLA. In summary, these results provide evidence that protein feeding may more efficiently restore football-specific performance and strength and provide antioxidant protection during a congested game fixture.

Skeletal muscle stem cell characteristics and myonuclei content in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a cross-sectional study

To investigate satellite cells (SCs) and myonuclei characteristics in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Resting biopsies from m. vastus lateralis were obtained from thirteen RA patients and thirteen matched healthy controls (CON). Muscle biopsies were immunohistochemically stained and analyzed for fiber type specific content of SCs (Pax7⁺), proliferating SCs (Pax7⁺/MyoD⁺) and differentiating SCs (myogenin⁺). Furthermore, we quantified fiber type specific content of myonuclei and myofiber cross-sectional area (CSA). Finally, newly formed/regenerating fibers expressing neonatal MHC (nMHC⁺) were determined. The fiber type specific number of SCs did not differ between RA patients and CON, nor did the content of proliferating or differentiating SCs. In contrast, the content of myonuclei per fiber was higher in RA patients than CON for both type I (2.01 ± 0.41 vs. 1.42 ± 0.40 myonuclei/fiber, p < 0.01) and type II fibers (2.01 ± 0.41 vs. 1.37 ± 0.32 myonuclei/fiber, p < 0.01). No differences were observed in fiber composition, fiber type specific CSA or content of nMHC⁺ fibers. Our results indicate an increased propensity for myogenic differentiation of SC leading to an elevated myonuclear content in the skeletal muscle of RA patients. It is hypothesized that this could be a compensatory regulatory response related to the chronic inflammation in these patients.

Impact of blood flow-restricted bodyweight exercise on skeletal muscle adaptations

This study ascertains the ability of bodyweight blood flow-restricted (BFR) exercise training to promote skeletal muscle adaptations of significance for muscle accretion and metabolism. Six healthy young individuals (three males and three females) performed six weeks of bodyweight BFR training. Each session consisted of five sets of sit-to-stand BFR exercise to volitional failure with 30-second inter-set recovery. Prior to, and at least 72 h after training, muscle biopsies were taken from m. vastus lateralis to assess changes in fibre type-specific cross-sectional area (CSA), satellite cell (SC) and myonuclei content and capillarization, as well as mitochondrial protein expression. Furthermore, magnetic resonance imaging was used to assess changes in whole thigh muscle CSA. Finally, isometric knee extensor muscle strength was evaluated. An increase in knee extensor whole muscle CSA was observed at middle and distal localizations after training (3·2% and 3·5%, respectively) (P<0·05), and a trend was observed towards an increase in type I fibre CSA, whereas muscle strength did not increase. Additionally, the number of SCs and myonuclei associated with type I fibres increased by 65·7% and 20%, respectively (P<0·05). No significant changes were observed in measures of muscle capillarization and mitochondrial proteins. In conclusion, six weeks of bodyweight-based BFR exercise promoted myocellular adaptations related to muscle accretion, but not metabolic properties. Moreover, the study revealed that an appropriate total training volume needs further investigation before recommending bodyweight BFR to patient populations.

Starring or Supporting Role? Satellite Cells and Skeletal Muscle Fiber Size Regulation

Recent loss-of-function studies show that satellite cell depletion does not promote sarcopenia or unloading-induced atrophy, and does not prevent regrowth. Although overload-induced muscle fiber hypertrophy is normally associated with satellite cell-mediated myonuclear accretion, hypertrophic adaptation proceeds in the absence of satellite cells in fully grown adult mice, but not in young growing mice. Emerging evidence also indicates that satellite cells play an important role in remodeling the extracellular matrix during hypertrophy.

The development of skeletal muscle hypertrophy through resistance training: the role of muscle damage and muscle protein synthesis

Resistance training (RT)-induced skeletal muscle hypertrophy is a highly intricate process. Despite substantial advances, we are far from understanding exactly how muscle hypertrophy develops during RT. The aim of the present review is to discuss new insights related to the role of skeletal muscle damage and muscle protein synthesis (MPS) in mediating RT-induced hypertrophy. Specifically, the thesis that in the early phase of RT (≤ 4 previous RT sessions) increases in muscle cross-sectional area are mostly attributable to muscle damage-induced muscle swelling; then (after ~ 10 sessions), a modest magnitude of muscle hypertrophy ensues; but only during a latter phase of RT (after ~ 18 sessions) is true muscle hypertrophy observed. We argue that the initial increases in MPS post-RT are likely directed to muscle repair and remodelling due to damage, and do not correlate with eventual muscle hypertrophy induced by several RT weeks. Increases in MPS post-RT session only contribute to muscle hypertrophy after a progressive attenuation of muscle damage, and even more significantly when damage is minimal. Furthermore, RT protocols that do not promote significant muscle damage still induce similar muscle hypertrophy and strength gains compared to conditions that do promote initial muscle damage. Thus, we conclude that muscle damage is not the process that mediates or potentiates RT-induced muscle hypertrophy.

Protein Supplementation Does Not Affect Myogenic Adaptations to Resistance Training

It has been proposed that protein supplementation during resistance exercise training enhances muscle hypertrophy. The degree of hypertrophy during training is controlled in part through the activation of satellite cells and myonuclear accretion.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to determine the efficacy of protein supplementation (and the type of protein) during traditional resistance training on myofiber cross-sectional area, satellite cell content, and myonuclear addition.

METHODS

Healthy young men participated in supervised whole-body progressive resistance training 3 d·wk for 12 wk. Participants were randomized to one of three groups ingesting a daily 22-g macronutrient dose of soy-dairy protein blend (PB, n = 22), whey protein isolate (WP, n = 15), or an isocaloric maltodextrin placebo (MDP, n = 17). Lean mass, vastus lateralis myofiber-type-specific cross-sectional area, satellite cell content, and myonuclear addition were assessed before and after resistance training.

RESULTS

PB and the pooled protein treatments (PB + WP = PRO) exhibited a greater whole-body lean mass %change compared with MDP (P = 0.057 for PB) and (P = 0.050 for PRO), respectively. All treatments demonstrated similar leg muscle hypertrophy and vastus lateralis myofiber-type-specific cross-sectional area (P < 0.05). Increases in myosin heavy chain I and II myofiber satellite cell content and myonuclei content were also detected after exercise training (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Protein supplementation during resistance training has a modest effect on whole-body lean mass as compared with exercise training without protein supplementation, and there was no effect on any outcome between protein supplement types (blend vs whey). However, protein supplementation did not enhance resistance exercise-induced increases in myofiber hypertrophy, satellite cell content, or myonuclear addition in young healthy men. We propose that as long as protein intake is adequate during muscle overload, the adaptations in muscle growth and function will not be influenced by protein supplementation.

Recovery from muscle weakness by exercise and FES: lessons from Masters, active or sedentary seniors and SCI patients

Many factors contribute to the decline of skeletal muscle that occurs as we age. This is a reality that we may combat, but not prevent because it is written into our genome. The series of records from World Master Athletes reveals that skeletal muscle power begins to decline at the age of 30 years and continues, almost linearly, to zero at the age of 110 years. Here we discuss evidence that denervation contributes to the atrophy and slowness of aged muscle. We compared muscle from lifelong active seniors to that of sedentary elderly people and found that the sportsmen have more muscle bulk and slow fiber type groupings, providing evidence that physical activity maintains slow motoneurons which reinnervate muscle fibers. Further, accelerated muscle atrophy/degeneration occurs with irreversible Conus and Cauda Equina syndrome, a spinal cord injury in which the human leg muscles may be permanently disconnected from the nervous system with complete loss of muscle fibers within 5-8 years. We used histological morphometry and Muscle Color Computed Tomography to evaluate muscle from these peculiar persons and reveal that contraction produced by home-based Functional Electrical Stimulation (h-bFES) recovers muscle size and function which is reversed if h-bFES is discontinued. FES also reverses muscle atrophy in sedentary seniors and modulates mitochondria in horse muscles. All together these observations indicate that FES modifies muscle fibers by increasing contractions per day. Thus, FES should be considered in critical care units, rehabilitation centers and nursing facilities when patients are unable or reluctant to exercise.

Laminin-111 enriched fibrin hydrogels for skeletal muscle regeneration

Laminin (LM)-111 supplementation has improved muscle regeneration in several models of disease and injury. This study investigated a novel hydrogel composed of fibrinogen and LM-111. Increasing LM-111 concentration (50-450 μg/mL) in fibrin hydrogels resulted in highly fibrous scaffolds with progressively thinner interlaced fibers. Rheological testing showed that all hydrogels had viscoelastic behavior and the Young's modulus ranged from 2-6KPa. C₂C₁₂ myobalsts showed a significant increase in VEGF production and decrease in IL-6 production on LM-111 enriched fibrin hydrogels as compared to pure fibrin hydrogels on day 4. Western blotting results showed a significant increase in MyoD and desmin protein quantity but a significant decrease in myogenin protein quantity in myoblasts cultured on the LM-111 (450 μg/mL) enriched fibrin hydrogel. Combined application of electromechanical stimulation significantly enhanced the production of VEGF and IGF-1 from myoblast seeded fibrin-LM-111 hydrogels. Taken together, these observations offer an important first step toward optimizing a tissue engineered constructs for skeletal muscle regeneration.

Acute and Long-Term Impact of High-Protein Diets on Endocrine and Metabolic Function, Body Composition, and Exercise-Induced Adaptations

BACKGROUND

High-protein diets have been shown to improve body composition through alterations in satiety, muscle protein synthesis, and the thermic effect of food.

AIM

Given these findings, the purpose of this review is to discuss the integration of the specific hormonal and metabolic effects of high-protein diets following both acute and long-term usage, especially with regard to body composition.

METHODS

Full-text articles were obtained through PubMed by using the terms "high-protein diet and body composition," "high-protein diet and exercise," "high-protein diet risk," "high-protein diet side effects," "protein quality PDCAAS," "RDA for protein," and "daily protein recommendation." Articles were initially screened according to their title and abstract; careful evaluation of the full manuscripts was then used to identify relevant articles.

RESULTS

The higher satiety exerted by high-protein diets is generated through increments in anorexigenic, as well as decrements in orexigenic hormones. Improvements in muscle mass are achieved by activation of muscle protein synthesis acting through the mTOR pathway. High thermic effect of food is caused due to necessary deamination, gluconeogenesis, and urea synthesis caused by high-protein diets. Interestingly, high-protein diets in both hypo- and normocaloric conditions have shown to improve body composition, whereas in combination with hypercaloric conditions does not seem to increase fat mass, when the excess energy comes from protein.

CONCLUSIONS

High protein diets effectively improve body composition by acting through different pathways.

Fiber Type-Specific Satellite Cell Content in Cyclists Following Heavy Training with Carbohydrate and Carbohydrate-Protein Supplementation

The central purpose of this study was to evaluate the fiber type-specific satellite cell and myonuclear responses of endurance-trained cyclists to a block of intensified training, when supplementing with carbohydrate (CHO) vs. carbohydrate-protein (PRO). In a crossover design, endurance-trained cyclists (n = 8) performed two consecutive training periods, once supplementing with CHO (de facto “control” condition) and the other with PRO. Each training period consisted of 10 days of intensified cycle training (ICT–120% increase in average training duration) followed by 10 days of recovery (RVT–reduced volume training; 33% volume reduction vs. normal training). Skeletal muscle biopsies were obtained from the vastus lateralis before and after ICT and again following RVT. Immunofluorescent microscopy was used to quantify SCs (Pax7+), myonuclei (DAPI+), and myosin heavy chain I (MyHC I). Data are expressed as percent change ± 90% confidence limits. The 10-day block of ICT_CHO increased MyHC I SC content (35 ± 28%) and myonuclear density (16 ± 6%), which remained elevated following RVT_CHO (SC = 69 ± 50% vs. PRE; Nuclei = 17 ± 15% vs. PRE). MyHC II SC and myonuclei were not different following ICT_CHO, but were higher following RVT_CHO (SC = +33 ± 31% vs. PRE; Nuclei = 15 ± 14% vs. PRE), indicating a delayed response compared to MyHC I fibers. The MyHC I SC pool increased following ICT_PRO (37 ± 37%), but without a concomitant increase in myonuclei. There were no changes in MyHC II SC or myonuclei following ICT_PRO. Collectively, these trained endurance cyclists possessed a relatively large pool of SCs that facilitated rapid (MyHC I) and delayed (MyHC II) satellite cell proliferation and myonuclear accretion under carbohydrate conditions. The current findings strengthen the growing body of evidence demonstrating alterations in satellite cell number in the absence of hypertrophy. Satellite cell pool expansion is typically viewed as an advantageous response to exercise. However, when coupled with our previous report that PRO possibly enhanced whole muscle recovery and increased MyHC I and II fiber size, the limited satellite cell/myonuclear response observed with carbohydrate-protein seem to indicate that protein supplementation may have minimized the necessity for satellite cell involvement, thereby suggesting that protein may benefit skeletal muscle during periods of heavy training.

Satellite Cells Contribution to Exercise Mediated Muscle Hypertrophy and Repair

Satellite cells (SCs) are the most abundant skeletal muscle stem cells. They are widely recognized for their contributions to maintenance of muscle mass, regeneration and hypertrophy during the human life span. These cells are good candidates for cell therapy due to their self-renewal capabilities and presence in an undifferentiated form. Presently, a significant gap exists between our knowledge of SCs behavior and their application as a means for human skeletal muscle tissue repair and regeneration. Both physiological and pathological stimuli potentially affect SCs activation, proliferation, and terminal differentiation the former category being the focus of this article. Activation of SCs occurs following exercise, post-training micro-injuries, and electrical stimulation. Exercise, as a potent and natural stimulus, is at the center of numerous studies on SC activation and relevant fields. According to research, different exercise modalities end with various effects. This review article attempts to picture the state of the art of the SCs life span and their engagement in muscle regeneration and hypertrophy in exercise.

Cycle training modulates satellite cell and transcriptional responses to a bout of resistance exercise

This investigation evaluated whether moderate-intensity cycle ergometer training affects satellite cell and molecular responses to acute maximal concentric/eccentric resistance exercise in middle-aged women. Baseline and 72 h postresistance exercise vastus lateralis biopsies were obtained from seven healthy middle-aged women (56 ± 5 years, BMI 26 ± 1, VO2max 27 ± 4) before and after 12 weeks of cycle training. Myosin heavy chain (MyHC) I- and II-associated satellite cell density and cross-sectional area was determined via immunohistochemistry. Expression of 93 genes representative of the muscle-remodeling environment was also measured via NanoString. Overall fiber size increased ~20% with cycle training (P = 0.052). MyHC I satellite cell density increased 29% in response to acute resistance exercise before endurance training and 50% with endurance training (P < 0.05). Following endurance training, MyHC I satellite cell density decreased by 13% in response to acute resistance exercise (acute resistance × training interaction, P < 0.05). Genes with an interaction effect tracked with satellite cell behavior, increasing in the untrained state and decreasing in the endurance trained state in response to resistance exercise. Similar satellite cell and gene expression response patterns indicate coordinated regulation of the muscle environment to promote adaptation. Moderate-intensity endurance cycle training modulates the response to acute resistance exercise, potentially conditioning the muscle for more intense concentric/eccentric activity. These results suggest that cycle training is an effective endurance exercise modality for promoting growth in middle-aged women, who are susceptible to muscle mass loss with progressing age.

High Intensity Training May Reverse the Fiber Type Specific Decline in Myogenic Stem Cells in Multiple Sclerosis Patients

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is associated with loss of skeletal muscle mass and function. The myogenic stem cells (satellite cells—SCs) are instrumental to accretion of myonuclei, but remain to be investigated in MS. The present study aimed to compare the SC and myonuclei content between MS patients (n = 23) and age matched healthy controls (HC, n = 18). Furthermore, the effects of 12 weeks of high intensity training on SC and myonuclei content were explored in MS. Muscle biopsies were obtained from m. Vastus Lateralis at baseline (MS and HC) and following 12 weeks of training (MS only). Frozen biopsies were sectioned followed by immunohistochemical analysis for fiber type specific SCs (Pax7⁺), myonuclei (MN) and central nuclei content and fiber cross-sectional area (fCSA) was quantified using ATPase histochemistry. At baseline the SCs per fiber was lower in type II compared to type I fibers in both MS (119%, p < 0.01) and HC (69%, p < 0.05), whereas the SCs per fCSA was lower in type II fibers compared to type I only in MS (72%, p < 0.05). No differences were observed in MN or central nuclei between MS and HC. Following training the type II fiber SCs per fiber and per fCSA in MS patients increased by 165% (p < 0.05) and 135% (p < 0.05), respectively. Furthermore, the type II fiber MN content tended (p = 0.06) to be increased by 35% following training. In conclusion, the SC content is lower in type II compared to type I fibers in both MS and HC. Furthermore, high intensity training was observed to selectively increase the SC and myonuclei content in type II fibers in MS patients.

Potential Role of Omega-3 Fatty Acids on the Myogenic Program of Satellite Cells

Skeletal muscle loss is associated with aging as well as pathological conditions. Satellite cells (SCs) play an important role in muscle regeneration. Omega-3 fatty acids are widely studied in a variety of muscle wasting diseases; however, little is known about their impact on skeletal muscle regeneration. The aim of this review is to evaluate studies examining the effect of omega-3 fatty acids, α-linolenic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid, and docosahexaenoic acid on the regulation of SC proliferation and differentiation. This review highlights mechanisms by which omega-3 fatty acids may modulate the myogenic program of the stem cell population within skeletal muscles and identifies considerations for future studies. It is proposed that minimally three myogenic transcriptional regulatory factors, paired box 7 (Pax7), myogenic differentiation 1 protein, and myogenin, should be measured to confirm the stage of SCs within the myogenic program affected by omega-3 fatty acids.

CURRENT CONCEPTS OF MUSCLE AND TENDON ADAPTATION TO STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING

Injuries to the muscle and/or associated tendon(s) are common clinical entities treated by sports physical therapists and other rehabilitation professionals. Therapeutic exercise is a primary treatment modality for muscle and/or tendon injuries; however, the therapeutic exercise strategies should not be applied in a "one-size-fits-all approach". To optimize an athlete's rehabilitation or performance, one must be able to construct resistance training programs accounting for the type of injury, the stage of healing, the functional and architectural requirements for the muscle and tendon, and the long-term goals for that patient. The purpose of this clinical commentary is to review the muscular and tendinous adaptations associated with strength training, link training adaptations and resistance training principles for the athlete recovering from an injury, and illustrate the application of evidence-based resistance training for patients with a tendinopathy.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

5.

Satellite cells in human skeletal muscle plasticity

Skeletal muscle satellite cells are considered to play a crucial role in muscle fiber maintenance, repair and remodeling. Our knowledge of the role of satellite cells in muscle fiber adaptation has traditionally relied on in vitro cell and in vivo animal models. Over the past decade, a genuine effort has been made to translate these results to humans under physiological conditions. Findings from in vivo human studies suggest that satellite cells play a key role in skeletal muscle fiber repair/remodeling in response to exercise. Mounting evidence indicates that aging has a profound impact on the regulation of satellite cells in human skeletal muscle. Yet, the precise role of satellite cells in the development of muscle fiber atrophy with age remains unresolved. This review seeks to integrate recent results from in vivo human studies on satellite cell function in muscle fiber repair/remodeling in the wider context of satellite cell biology whose literature is largely based on animal and cell models.

Pericyte response to contraction mode-specific resistance exercise training in human skeletal muscle

Skeletal muscle satellite cells (SCs) are important for muscle repair and hypertrophy in response mechanical stimuli. Neuron-glial antigen 2-positive (NG2(+)) and alkaline phosphatase-positive (ALP(+)) pericytes may provide an alternative source of myogenic progenitors and/or secrete paracrine factors to induce Pax7(+) SC proliferation and differentiation. The purpose of this study was to investigate NG2(+) and ALP(+) cell quantity, as well as SC content and activation, in human skeletal muscle following prolonged concentric (Conc) or eccentric (Ecc) resistance training. Male subjects engaged in unilateral resistance training utilizing isolated Ecc or Conc contractions. After 12 wk, muscle biopsies were analyzed for NG2(+) and ALP(+) pericytes, total Pax7(+) SCs, activated SCs (Pax7(+)MyoD(+)), and differentiating myogenic cells (Pax7(-) MyoD(+)). NG2(+) cells localized to CD31(+) vessels and the majority coexpressed ALP. NG2(+) pericyte quantity decreased following both Conc and Ecc training (P < 0.05). ALP(+) pericyte quantity declined following Conc (P < 0.05) but not Ecc training. Conversely, total Pax7(+) SC content was elevated following Conc only (P < 0.001), while Pax7(+)MyoD(+) SC content was increased following Conc and Ecc (P < 0.001). Follow up analyses demonstrated that CD90(+) and platelet-derived growth factor receptor-α (PDGFRα)(+) mononuclear cell proliferation was also increased in response to both Conc and Ecc training (P < 0.01). In summary, resistance training results in a decline in pericyte quantity and an increase in mesenchymal progenitor cell proliferation, and these events likely influence SC pool expansion and increased activation observed posttraining.

Early myogenic responses to acute exercise before and after resistance training in young men

To enable dynamic regulation of muscle mass and myofiber repair following injury, a satellite cell precursor population exists to supply additional nuclei. Activated satellite cells express many genes and associated proteins necessary for maturation and incorporation into the damaged fiber. There is little knowledge about the response of these markers following whole-body resistance exercise training. We investigated the impact of 12 weeks of progressive whole-body resistance training on the expression of MRFs, PAX7, NCAM, and FA1, incorporating both acute and chronic resistance exercise components. Ten young recreationally active males (21.2 ± 3.5 years) performed 12 weeks of whole-body resistance training at 70-85% of their predetermined one-repetition maximum (1RM). At the initiation and completion of the training period, muscular strength was assessed by RM and dynamometer testing, and vastus lateralis samples were obtained prior to and 3 h following an acute resistance exercise test (both whole-body and isometric exercises). Increased mRNA expression of PAX7 (threefold), NCAM (threefold), MYF5 (threefold), MYOD (threefold) and MYOGENIN (twofold) was observed 3 h after the acute resistance exercise test, both pre and posttraining. Similarly, PAX7 (11-fold) and FA1 (twofold) protein abundance increased after acute exercise, while resting NCAM (eightfold) and FA1 (threefold) protein abundance increased following 12 weeks of resistance training. It is possible that these molecular changes are primarily due to the preceding exercise bout, and are not modified by long-term or whole-body exercise training.