Influence of gender and muscle origin on skeletal muscle gene expression at rest and following maximal resistance exercise

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Authors
Louis, Emily S.
Advisor
Trappe, Scott William
Issue Date
2008
Keyword
Degree
Thesis (Ph. D.)
Department
School of Physical Education, Sport, and Exercise Science
Other Identifiers
Abstract

The aim of this investigation was to compare the acute anabolic and catabolic responses of male and female vastus lateralis (VL) and soleus (SOL) muscles in response to resistance exercise (RE). Muscle biopsies from the VL of 7 males (26±3 y, 75±8 kg) and 7 females (25±3 y, 59±5 kg) were obtained before, and 2 and 6 h after 4 x 7 supine-squat, and 4 x 14 calf-press exercises at maximal effort using inertial ergometry. The mRNA levels of select myogenic (MyoD, myogenin, MRF4), proteolytic (atrogin-1 , MuRF-1), myostatin, and inflammatory (IL-6, -8, -15) genes were quantified using real-time RT-PCR. Male VL vs SOL: The SOL had higher basal mRNA levels of myogenic, proteolytic, and inflammatory genes. After exercise, the myogenic response was similar between the VL and SOL. Both muscles increased MuRF-1 similarly at 2 h, whereas 6 h post-RE proteolytic gene expression (GE) was suppressed in the VL but not in the SOL. The SOL had a reduction in myostatin GE, and a more robust inflammatory response compared to the VL. These findings indicate a more favorable growth response in the VL. Gender comparisons: VL – Basally, the male VL had higher levels of myogenic, proteolytic, myostatin, and inflammatory mRNA compared to the female VL. After exercise, both genders increased myogenic GE similarly. Both genders increased MuRF-1 initially, with females also increasing atrogin-1 and myostatin post-RE. At 6 h, males decreased proteolytic GE to below basal levels. Females also had a greater inflammatory response than males. These findings indicate a greater growth response to RE in the male VL as compared to the female VL. SOL – After exercise, both genders increased myogenic GE in the SOL, but only males increased MyoD expression. Males increased MuRF-1 mRNA but decreased myostatin GE, while females decreased atrogin-1. The inflammatory response was similar between males and females. Despite the modest differences, the net response of the female and male SOL was similar, and indicated a molecular response slightly favorable for growth.