Sports help muscles to get rid of protein debris

Strong muscles are not just a matter of aesthetics. Metabolism, the ability to maintain balance, and even blood sugar levels depend on the state of muscle tissue. After forty years of age, people begin to lose muscle mass, which dramatically increases the risk of falls and fractures. In aging societies, this is becoming a huge problem, putting strain on the healthcare system.

The main reason for this withering lies in the imbalance. The mTORC1 signaling pathway works inside cells, which is responsible for protein production. In his youth, he works clearly: builds new structures and removes old ones. But over the years, the uncontrolled production of new proteins begins, but the filtration of “garbage” stops. As a result, the cells become clogged with damaged elements, become inflamed and weaken.

The authors of the project have found a specific culprit for this process. It turned out to be a protein encoded by the DEAF1 gene. As we age, its level rises, and it forces the body to work hard, blocking the purification processes.

In a normal state, this bully is looked after by a group of FOXO regulatory proteins. They keep DEAF1 under control. However, with age, the activity of these proteins decreases, and DEAF1 begins to work in cells, literally breaking down the muscle structure.

Tan Hong-Wen, the lead author of the paper, explains the mechanism of action of sports at the molecular level. Physical activity works like a reset button. Exercise activates special enzymes that reduce the level of harmful DEAF1.

As soon as the concentration of this protein drops, the system returns to equilibrium. The cells finally get the opportunity to carry out a “general cleaning”: they dispose of the accumulated garbage and begin to build high-quality fabrics. That is why active pensioners remain alert and mobile much longer than their lazy peers.

Unfortunately, the discovery has a downside. Experiments have shown that if the level of DEAF1 is already off the charts, and there are almost no protective FOXO proteins left, exercise alone may not be enough. The recovery mechanism simply won’t start.

This explains why some older people, even when they start going to the gym or physical therapy, do not see significant progress. Their molecular brakes are too worn out. Nevertheless, understanding this process is already helping in new experiments. Testing the theory on fruit flies and mice confirmed the guesses: artificially reducing the level of DEAF1 instantly restored muscle strength.

This approach will be a salvation for those who cannot exercise due to injuries, cancer or bed rest after surgery. The drugs will be able to trick the muscles, forcing them to be cleansed and renewed, even if a person does not get out of bed. But while there are no such pills, regular movement remains the best way to prolong the youth of the body.