Related Experiment Videos
A possible role for glucocorticoids in denervation atrophy
Muscle & Nerve
|September 1, 1981
Summary
Skeletal muscle atrophy after denervation may occur because muscles become more sensitive to glucocorticoids. This study found increased glucocorticoid receptors in rat skeletal muscle following denervation.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Muscle Physiology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Skeletal muscle atrophy is a significant clinical concern.
- Both denervation and glucocorticoid excess can induce muscle wasting.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between denervation and glucocorticoid receptor expression in skeletal muscle.
- To test the hypothesis that increased glucocorticoid sensitivity contributes to denervation-induced muscle atrophy.
Main Methods:
- Rat models of skeletal muscle denervation were utilized.
- Cytosolic glucocorticoid receptor levels in skeletal muscle were quantified.
Main Results:
- Denervation led to a significant increase in the number of glucocorticoid receptors in the skeletal muscle cytosol.
- These findings support a role for glucocorticoids in the atrophy process following nerve damage.
Conclusions:
- Skeletal muscle denervation results in heightened sensitivity to glucocorticoids.
- This increased sensitivity is a potential mechanism underlying denervation-induced muscle atrophy.