Changes in oxidative stress severity and antioxidant potential during muscle atrophy and reloading in mice

[Purpose] Changes in oxidative stress severity and antioxidant potential are routinely used as oxidative stress markers. While several studies have reported the relationship between these markers and exercise, little is known about the dynamic nature of these markers during muscle atrophy and reloading. Therefore, we examined changes in oxidative stress severity and antioxidant potential during muscle atrophy and reloading. [Subjects and Methods] Muscle atrophy was induced in mice by casting the limb for 2 weeks. Mice were then subjected to reloading for 2 weeks. The severity of oxidative stress (hydroperoxide) and antioxidant potential (degree of reduction) were quantified. [Results] Muscle atrophy was induced by cast immobilization. The muscle mass of mice recovered to similar levels as the control group following 2 weeks of reloading. The degree of oxidative stress was within the normal range throughout the experimental period. The antioxidant potential decreased to the clinical borderline level 2 weeks after immobilization, further decreased after 1 day of reloading, and then recovered to within the normal range. [Conclusion] Performing d-ROMs and BAP tests may contribute to the understanding to atrophic process of skeletal muscle in clinical practice of physical therapy.