Nitrate-containing beetroot enhances myocyte metabolism and mitochondrial content

Area of Science:

• Exercise Physiology
• Nutritional Biochemistry
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Beetroot (tián cài) juice is investigated for its potential to improve aerobic performance.
• Mechanisms may involve vasodilation and alterations in skeletal muscle metabolism and physiology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of a commercial beetroot supplement on myocyte metabolism, gene expression, and mitochondrial content.
• To explore beetroot's impact on key metabolic pathways and mitochondrial biogenesis.

Main Methods:

• C2C12 myocytes were treated with varying concentrations and durations of beetroot supplement.
• Quantified glycolytic and oxidative metabolism via extracellular acidification and oxygen consumption measurements.
• Assessed metabolic gene expression (PGC-1α, NRF1, TFAM, GLUT4) and mitochondrial content using RT-qPCR, flow cytometry, and confocal microscopy.

Main Results:

• Beetroot treatment significantly increased basal oxidative metabolism in myocytes.
• Elevated expression of key metabolic genes, including PGC-1α, NRF1, TFAM, and GLUT4, was observed.
• Demonstrated increased mitochondrial biogenesis following beetroot extract treatment.

Conclusions:

• Beetroot supplement treatment effectively enhances basal oxidative metabolism in cultured myocytes.
• Beetroot extract acts as an inducer of metabolic gene expression and mitochondrial biogenesis.
• Further research into nitrate-containing supplements for health and athletic benefits is warranted.