Tannase-Converted Green Tea Extract with High (-)-Epicatechin Inhibits Skeletal Muscle Mass in Aged Mice
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Ki-Bae Hong1, Hee-Seok Lee2, Dong Hyeon Kim3
1BK21 Plus, College of Health Science, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea.
Abstract:
The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of tannase-converted green tea extract on body composition, muscle oxidative stress-related factors, and differentiation-related factors. The mean bone-related parameters and body composition were determined by the live dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA). Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and western blotting were used to determine mRNA expression and protein levels, respectively. The results of total mass testing in the epicatechin control (EC) and middle concentration tannase-converted green tea extract (T 1) intake groups were not significantly different compared with those in the control group; however, the high-concentration tannase-converted green tea extract (T 2) group showed a significantly higher effect to the lean than that of all other groups (p < 0.05). The results of the assay of muscle differentiation-related genes indicated that the expression levels in the EC and T 1 groups (p < 0.05) and the expression levels in the T 2 group (p < 0.01) were significantly different in the bicep femoris compared with that in the control group. The results of the SOD gene assay indicate that the expression levels in the EC and T 1 groups (p < 0.05) and the expression level in the T 2 group (p < 0.01) were significantly different in the bicep femoris compared with that in the control group. Additionally, SOD gene expression in the T 2 group was significantly increased (p < 0.05) in the soleus compared with that in the control, EC and T 1 groups. Our results suggest that tannase-converted green tea extract prevents muscle loss and regulates the quantity and quality of muscle by the levels of antioxidant stress-related enzymes and muscle differentiation factors to a greater extent than the administration of epicatechin and middle dose green tea extract.
Insights
High-dose tannase-converted green tea extract significantly increased lean body mass and muscle differentiation factors. This extract also enhanced antioxidant enzyme expression, suggesting it prevents muscle loss more effectively than epicatechin.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Exercise Physiology
- Nutraceuticals
Background:
- Green tea extract is known for its health benefits.
- Tannase conversion may enhance the bioavailability of green tea compounds.
- Muscle mass and oxidative stress are crucial factors in aging and disease.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of tannase-converted green tea extract on body composition.
- To assess its effects on muscle oxidative stress markers.
- To investigate its influence on muscle differentiation factors.
Main Methods:
- Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) for body composition.
- Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) for gene expression.
- Western blotting for protein analysis.
Main Results:
- High-dose extract significantly increased lean body mass compared to controls.
- Muscle differentiation and SOD gene expression were upregulated by the extract.
- Tannase-converted green tea extract showed superior effects compared to epicatechin.
Conclusions:
- Tannase-converted green tea extract effectively prevents muscle loss.
- It regulates muscle quantity and quality via antioxidant and differentiation pathways.
- This extract holds promise as a supplement for muscle health.

