Effect of Urolithin A and low frequency Electrical Pulse Stimulation on mitochondrial function in C2C12 myotubes

Details

Supervisors

Deldicque, Louise ; Zbinden-Foncea, Hermann

Faculty

Faculté des sciences de la motricité

Degree label

Master [120] en sciences de la motricité, orientation éducation physique, à finalité didactique

Abstract

In the ever-ascending pursuit of longevity and vibrant health, the microscopic power station known as mitochondria have taken center stage. These cellular powerhouses are inextricably linked to skeletal muscle vitality and have become the focal point of recent investigations. This study investigates the combined impact of urolithin A (UA), a compound found in pomegranates and health/sport supplements, and electrical pulse stimulation (EPS), a recognized technique for inducing human-like physiological responses to exercise in vitro, on mitochondrial function in C2C12 myotubes. The results presented unexpected findings, challenging the initial hypotheses. Several markers exhibited similar expressions across all conditions, including PGC1α, AMPKα, TOM20, ACC, and the OXPHOS complexes. Tendencies for reduced ULK1 and mTOR phosphorylation with UA treatment could mean that UA decrease mitophagy and protein synthesis in these experimental conditions, which are results contrary to the current literature. Surprisingly, P38 phosphorylation showed a tendency to increase with UA treatment, suggesting an amplifying role in modulating inflammation, also contrary to the current literature. The study emphasizes on the expression and the phosphorylation stage of various mitochondrial proteins, paving the way for future research to uncover the underlying mechanisms and their implications for muscle health and cellular function.