Exploring the Role of MicroRNA-1 (miR-1) on Skeletal Muscle Hypertrophy

Authors

Shengyi Fei, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow

First Advisor

Ivan Vechetti

Date of this Version

5-2023

Citation

Fei, S. (2023). Exploring the Role of MicroRNA-1 (miR-1) on Skeletal Muscle Hypertrophy. M.S. thesis, University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

Comments

A THESIS Presented to the Faculty of The Graduate College at the University of Nebraska In Partial Fulfillment of Requirements For the Degree of Master of Science, Major: Nutrition and Health Sciences, Under the Supervision of Professor Ivan J. Vechetti Jr. Lincoln, Nebraska: May, 2023

Copyright © 2023 Shengyi Fei

Abstract

Skeletal muscle hypertrophy is a complex process that involves a range of signaling pathways and transcriptional regulators. Many hormones and growth factors can activate key signaling pathways, such as the PI3K/AKT/mTOR, MAPK, and cAMP pathways, which play a crucial role in the regulation of muscle hypertrophy. In Chapter 1, we reviewed some of the hormones and growth factors known to be associated with skeletal muscle hypertrophy, as well as the function of these key signaling pathways, and revealed some unresolved issues. In Chapter 2, we explored the role of microRNA-1 (miR-1) in skeletal muscle hypertrophy and aimed to determine the underlying molecular mechanisms. We hypothesize that reducing miR-1 levels is necessary for skeletal muscle growth due to its interaction with essential pro-growth genes (e.g., IGF1). Using lentivirus to increase miR-1 levels, we observed a blunted hypertrophic response in mice undergoing a murine model of muscle hypertrophy. In addition, we identified a possible mechanism by which miR-1 regulates skeletal muscle hypertrophy. Our results clearly demonstrated the necessity of miR-1 regulation during muscle hypertrophy.

Advisor: Ivan Vechetti.