Muscle PGC-1α modulates satellite cell number and proliferation by remodeling the stem cell niche. Issue 1 (December 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Dinulovic, Ivana; Furrer, Regula; Beer, Markus; Ferry, Arnaud; Cardel, Bettina; Handschin, Christoph
• Is Part Of: Skeletal muscle. Volume 6:Issue 1(2016)
• Page Start: 1
• Page End: 10
• Publication Date: 2016-12
• Subjects: PGC-1α -- Satellite cells -- Satellite cell niche -- Basal lamina -- Fibronectin -- Skeletal muscle; Musculoskeletal system -- Periodicals; 612.7
• DOI: 10.1186/s13395-016-0111-9
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2044-5040

Abstract

Abstract Background The myogenic capacity of satellite cells (SCs), adult muscle stem cells, is influenced by aging, exercise, and other factors. In skeletal muscle, the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator 1α (PGC-1α) is a key regulator of oxidative metabolism and endurance training adaptation. However, a link between PGC-1α and SC behavior remains unexplored. Methods We have now studied SC function in a PGC-1α fiber-specific gain-of-function animal model. Results In surprising contrast to bona fide exercise, muscle-specific PGC-1α transgenic mice have lower SC numbers. Nevertheless, SCs from these mice have a higher propensity for activation and proliferation. Intriguingly, muscle PGC-1α triggers a remodeling of the SC niche by altering the extracellular matrix composition, including the levels of fibronectin, which affects the proliferative output of SCs. Conclusions Taken together, PGC-1α indirectly affects SC plasticity in skeletal muscle and thereby might contribute to improved SC activation in exercise.