Cross-Talk das Vias de Sinalização Mitocondrial: implicações na atrofi a muscular

An optimal functioning of the muscular system requires its structures to be intact so that it can, in addition to performing its function, maintain energy homeostasis. The loss of integrity by any stimulus whatsoever, high-intensity work-outs, or its opposite, disuse, makes this apparatus function inefficiently. Atrophy is attributed to muscle inactivity as a result of disuse, aging, hunger, diseases and certain neurodegenerative states, such as cachexia. The biochemical and molecular mechanisms that occur in skeletal striated fibers during muscle atrophy, are closely related to mitochondrial activity. In this study, we propose that mitochondria plays a significant role in muscle atrophy as consequence of an impairment of the energy metabolism. The mechanisms by which these mitochondrial alterations contribute to the change of muscle physiology leading to atrophy of this system will be discussed throughout this article. Th e understanding of mitochondrial dysfunction that occurs in muscular atrophy and the pathophysiology of this process aims at better understanding how these factors interact, which is useful for conducting therapeutic interventions which purpose is to delay or even prevent muscle atrophy that occurs in immobilization and denervation conditions.