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Published on: March 3, 2021
Astragalus polysaccharide promotes sheep satellite cell differentiation by regulating miR-133a through the MAPK/ERK
Yuan Su1, Xuyang Gao1, Yu Wang1
1College of Animal Sciences, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu 030801, PR China.
Abstract:
Astragalus polysaccharide (APS) possesses extensive biological activities, pharmacological effects, and anti-fatigue function. MiR-133a is a specifically expressed miRNA in skeletal muscle that participates in the regulation of myoblast proliferation and differentiation. However, little is known about the role of APS in the development of sheep skeletal muscle. In this study, we aimed to investigate the underlying mechanism of APS and miR-133a on the differentiation of sheep skeletal muscle satellite cells (SMSCs) and the regulatory relationship between APS and miR-133a. The results suggested that APS plays a positive regulatory role in the proliferation and differentiation of sheep SMSCs. Moreover, miR-133a significantly promotes SMSC differentiation and the activity of the MAPK/ERK signaling pathway. Importantly, we found that APS function requires the mediation of miR-133a in the differentiation of sheep SMSCs. Taken together, our results indicate that APS accelerates SMSC differentiation by regulating miR-133a via the MAPK/ERK signaling pathway in sheep.
Insights
Astragalus polysaccharide (APS) promotes sheep skeletal muscle growth by enhancing satellite cell differentiation. This effect is mediated by miR-133a, which activates the MAPK/ERK pathway for improved muscle development.
Area of Science:
- Muscle Biology
- Molecular Biology
- Animal Science
Background:
- Astragalus polysaccharide (APS) is known for biological activities and anti-fatigue effects.
- MicroRNA-133a (miR-133a) is crucial for skeletal muscle development, regulating myoblast proliferation and differentiation.
- The specific role of APS in sheep skeletal muscle development remains largely uncharacterized.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the mechanism of APS and miR-133a in sheep skeletal muscle satellite cell (SMSC) differentiation.
- To elucidate the regulatory relationship between APS and miR-133a in SMSCs.
- To understand how APS influences sheep skeletal muscle development.
Main Methods:
- Cell culture of sheep skeletal muscle satellite cells (SMSCs).
- Treatment with Astragalus polysaccharide (APS).
- Analysis of miR-133a expression and its impact on SMSC differentiation and MAPK/ERK pathway activity.
Main Results:
- APS positively regulates the proliferation and differentiation of sheep SMSCs.
- miR-133a significantly promotes SMSC differentiation and enhances MAPK/ERK signaling pathway activity.
- APS-induced effects on SMSC differentiation are dependent on miR-133a mediation.
Conclusions:
- Astragalus polysaccharide (APS) accelerates SMSC differentiation in sheep.
- The mechanism involves APS regulating miR-133a, which in turn activates the MAPK/ERK signaling pathway.
- This study clarifies the role of APS in sheep skeletal muscle development through the miR-133a/MAPK/ERK axis.

