Researchers have uncovered a mechanism through which calorie restriction boosts muscle stem cell function, aiding in the repair and maintenance of muscle tissue. This practice has shown short-term benefits in regeneration and long-term effects in combatting muscle loss and weakness. The research community may explore pharmaceutical avenues to replicate the benefits of calorie restriction.
Through unbiased proteomics analysis, it was found that calorie restriction leads to increased protein secretion from the liver, including those involved in coagulation and fibrinolysis. The study demonstrated that liver-derived plasminogen plays a key role in enhancing muscle regeneration during calorie restriction by activating muscle satellite cells. This interaction between the liver and muscle promotes muscle resilience, highlighting the importance of crosstalk between tissues.
Using a specialized model, the study examined the effects of calorie restriction on the secretome of key metabolic tissues. Liver secreted proteins significantly increased after just 2 weeks of calorie restriction and continued throughout the study period. Notably, these proteins were associated with improved coagulation and hemostasis, potentially benefiting cardiovascular health. Additionally, calorie restriction reduced the secretion of inflammatory proteins, aligning with its anti-inflammatory properties.
By analyzing human tissue samples from a calorie restriction trial, the study confirmed similar effects observed in mice, including increased plasminogen levels and satellite cell expansion. These findings emphasize the translational relevance of calorie restriction in preserving muscle health. The upregulation of the plasminogen receptor on human satellite cells during calorie restriction further supports the significance of this research on human biology.
