Effects of Alcohol on Muscle Protein Synthesis in Young and Mature Rats
Author Information
Author(s): Charles H. Lang, Anne M. Pruznak, Gerald J. Nystrom, Thomas C. Vary
Primary Institution: The Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine
Hypothesis
Young rats will show a more pronounced decrement in muscle protein synthesis than older mature rats in response to acute EtOH intoxication.
Conclusion
Muscle protein synthesis is equally sensitive to the inhibitory effects of EtOH in both young and mature rats, but mature rats require a larger dose of EtOH to achieve comparable blood alcohol levels.
Supporting Evidence
- Blood alcohol levels were lower in mature rats compared to young rats after administration of 75 mmol/kg EtOH.
- EtOH decreased muscle protein synthesis similarly in both young and high-dose EtOH-treated mature rats.
- The decreased protein synthesis was associated with a reduction in mTOR activity.
Takeaway
When young and older rats drink alcohol, both have similar problems with muscle growth, but older rats need to drink more to feel the same effects.
Methodology
Male F344 rats were injected with EtOH and muscle protein synthesis was assessed using labeled phenylalanine and phosphorylation analysis.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in the selection of rat age groups and the specific strain used.
Limitations
The study did not examine the effects of aging beyond 12 months, which may limit the applicability of findings to older populations.
Participant Demographics
Male F344 rats aged approximately 3 months (young) and 12 months (mature).
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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