Spatiotemporal Remodeling of Presynaptic Terminals in Human Neuromuscular Junctions
Zhanyang Liang1, Sebastian L Schubert2, Aline Müller1
1Institute of Pathology, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, 52074 Aachen, Germany.
International Journal of Molecular Sciences
|February 27, 2026
Summary
This study reveals that human skeletal muscle tissue models can mimic age-related changes in neuromuscular junctions (NMJs). Supplementing with fatty acids improved NMJ formation, suggesting metabolic interventions for neuromuscular decline.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Muscle Physiology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Neuromuscular junctions (NMJs) are critical for motor neuron-muscle communication and force sensing.
- Understanding NMJ dynamics is vital for addressing age-related neuromuscular decline.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate neuromuscular junction presynaptic terminal (PT) formation and remodeling in a human skeletal muscle tissue model.
- To explore the influence of age, in vitro culture, and metabolic status on NMJ structure.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a human skeletal muscle tissue model with immunohistochemical analysis.
- Examined PTs from surgical samples and after 11 days of in vitro culture.
- Assessed protein expression, macrophage presence, and effects of fatty acid supplementation.
Main Results:
- PT formation increased with age in postsurgical samples, linked to neurotrophic and inflammatory factors.
- In vitro culture mimicked age-associated changes and increased PT fragmentation, correlating with BMI.
- Long-chain fatty acid supplementation partially restored PT formation in vitro.
Conclusions:
- Human skeletal muscle tissue models are valuable for studying NMJ dynamics and pathological changes.
- Metabolic interventions, like fatty acid supplementation, may offer therapeutic potential for neuromuscular disorders.
- Findings suggest a link between metabolic health, BMI, and neuromuscular junction integrity.
Keywords:
2H3SV2fatty acidhumanneuromuscular junctionpresynaptic terminalskeletal muscletissue modeltissue-resident macrophagesMore Related Videos
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