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Masticatory Movement With Whey Peptide Supplementation Inhibits the Decrease of Masseter Weight in Protein
Tomohiro Kagawa1, Ippei Yamaoka1
1Medical Foods Research Institute, OS-1 Division, Otsuka Pharmaceutical Factory, Inc., Tokushima, Japan.
Journal of Oral Rehabilitation
|May 23, 2025
Summary
Combining mastication with whey peptide intake effectively inhibited masseter muscle atrophy in rats. This suggests a novel therapeutic approach for maintaining oral function and muscle health.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Muscle Physiology
- Nutrition Science
Background:
- Mastication is crucial for oral function, but its role in preventing masseter muscle atrophy alongside protein intake remains unclear.
- Investigating masseter muscle atrophy mechanisms is vital for understanding and maintaining oral health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying masseter atrophy inhibition.
- To evaluate the combined effects of mastication and protein intake on masseter muscle atrophy in a rat model.
Main Methods:
- Male Wistar rats were fed normal (20%) or low (2.5%) protein diets (solid or powdered) for 3 weeks.
- Groups received either whey peptide or sugar solutions.
- Masseter muscles and blood were collected for analysis.
Main Results:
- Low protein intake reduced masseter weight; this effect was most significantly inhibited by a solid diet and whey peptide administration.
- Whey peptide and solid diet increased the expression of ULK1 (Unc-51-like kinase 1) and phosphorylated ULK1 (Ser757), proteins linked to protein degradation.
- These findings suggest a molecular mechanism involving the regulation of autophagy.
Conclusions:
- Mastication combined with whey peptide administration mitigated masseter muscle atrophy in protein-malnourished rats.
- The study indicates that controlling autophagy is a key molecular mechanism in preventing masseter muscle atrophy.
- This research provides insights into nutritional and mechanical strategies for preserving oral muscle function.
