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miR-29c Increases Protein Synthesis in Skeletal Muscle Independently of AKT/mTOR

Paula Ketilly Nascimento Alves1, André Cruz1, William J Silva1

  • 1Department of Anatomy, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo 05508-900, Brazil.

International Journal of Molecular Sciences
|July 9, 2022
PubMed

Insights

MicroRNA-29c (miR-29c) enhances skeletal muscle growth and function by increasing fiber size and force. This occurs through elevated protein synthesis despite AKT/mTOR pathway downregulation.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Muscle Physiology
  • Gene Regulation

Background:

  • microRNAs (miRNAs) are key regulators of gene expression, impacting cellular processes.
  • Skeletal muscle mass regulation is complex and involves fine-tuning by miRNAs.
  • Understanding miRNA roles is crucial for muscle adaptation and health.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the effect of miR-29c overexpression on skeletal muscle mass and function.
  • To elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying miR-29c-mediated skeletal muscle adaptations.
  • To explore the interplay between miR-29c, protein synthesis, and the AKT/mTOR pathway.

Main Methods:

  • Skeletal muscle-specific overexpression of miR-29c using electrotransfer.
  • Assessment of muscle fiber size and force production.
  • Analysis of AKT/mTOR pathway components and overall protein synthesis rates.

Main Results:

  • miR-29c overexpression led to increased skeletal muscle fiber size and force at 7 and 30 days post-electrotransfer.
  • AKT/mTOR pathway components were downregulated following miR-29c electrotransfer.
  • Overall protein synthesis was significantly elevated at day 7, normalizing by day 30.

Conclusions:

  • miR-29c induces skeletal muscle hypertrophy and functional gains.
  • These effects are associated with increased protein synthesis, independent of AKT/mTOR pathway activation.
  • miR-29c represents a potential therapeutic target for muscle-related disorders.
Keywords:
AKTmTORmiR-29cmiceprotein synthesisskeletal muscle

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