Baicalin Promotes Skeletal Muscle Fiber Remodeling by Activating the p38MAPK/PGC-1α Signaling Pathway

Area of Science:

• Muscle Physiology
• Biochemistry
• Nutraceuticals

Background:

• Skeletal muscle is vital for metabolism and function, with fiber type influencing performance and meat quality.
• Natural products, including flavonoids like baicalin, can modulate skeletal muscle development and function.
• The specific role of baicalin in skeletal muscle fiber type conversion and its mechanisms are not fully understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of baicalin on skeletal muscle fiber type conversion in vitro and in vivo.
• To elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying baicalin-induced skeletal muscle fiber remodeling.
• To assess the impact of baicalin on muscle fiber composition and meat quality.

Main Methods:

• In vitro study using C2C12 myoblasts treated with 125 μM baicalin.
• In vivo studies utilizing C57BL/6J mice and weaned piglets.
• Analysis of gene and protein expression, enzyme activity (SDH, LDH), and mitochondrial complex expression.
• Investigation of the p38 MAPK/PGC-1α signaling pathway activation.

Main Results:

• Baicalin promoted the conversion of skeletal muscle fibers from glycolytic to oxidative types in both mice and pigs.
• This conversion was associated with increased expression of oxidative fiber markers, upregulated SDH activity, and enhanced mitochondrial function.
• Conversely, glycolytic fiber markers and LDH activity were decreased.
• Baicalin was found to activate the p38 MAPK/PGC-1α signaling pathway by targeting and increasing p38 MAPK expression and phosphorylation.

Conclusions:

• Baicalin induces a shift in skeletal muscle fiber composition towards oxidative myofibers.
• This effect is mediated through the activation of the p38 MAPK/PGC-1α signaling pathway.
• Baicalin holds potential for improving muscle characteristics and meat quality.