Study reveals a new potential mechanism underlying loss of muscle mass during menopause

Study reveals a new potential mechanism underlying loss of muscle mass during menopause
A new study reveals that estrogen deficiency alters the microRNA signalling in skeletal muscle, which may activate signalling cascades leading to loss of muscle mass. Credit: University of Jyväskylä, Finland

Menopause leads to an estrogen deficiency that is associated with decreases in skeletal muscle mass and strength. This is likely due to changes in both muscle function and the size of muscle cells commonly referred to as fibers.

"The mechanistic role of estrogen in the loss of muscle mass had not been established. In our study, we focused on signaling cascades in skeletal muscle that eventually lead to cell death," explains Academy of Finland postdoctoral researcher Sira Karvinenfrom the Gerontology Research Center, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Finland.

One possible signaling route leading to cell death involves microRNA molecules. MicroRNA molecules regulate gene expression by inhibiting targeted protein synthesis. To date, several microRNAs have been found to regulate key steps in cell death pathways and hence may regulate the number of muscle cells.

"In our previous studies we have established estrogen responsive microRNAs in both blood and muscle of menopausal women," says the principal investigator, academy research fellow Eija Laakkonen. "Now, we have investigated this observation in more detail by using an of low and high systemic estrogen levels provided by Professor Dawn Lowe's group working at the University of Minnesota."

The study revealed that downregulated several microRNAs linked to cell death pathways in muscle. This observation was associated with upregulation of proteins.

"Thus, estrogen responsive micro-RNAs may share a mechanistic role in muscle wasting during menopause," says Karvinen. "One preventative strategy recommended is for women to engage in resistance training especially at middle age to aid in maintaining muscle mass and power."

More information: Sira Karvinen et al. Estradiol deficiency and skeletal muscle apoptosis: Possible contribution of microRNAs, Experimental Gerontology (2021). DOI: 10.1016/j.exger.2021.111267

Citation: Study reveals a new potential mechanism underlying loss of muscle mass during menopause (2021, February 18) retrieved 28 March 2024 from https://medicalxpress.com/news/2021-02-reveals-potential-mechanism-underlying-loss.html
This document is subject to copyright. Apart from any fair dealing for the purpose of private study or research, no part may be reproduced without the written permission. The content is provided for information purposes only.

Explore further

Menopause and estrogen affect muscle function

5 shares

Feedback to editors