Researchers at UTHealth found that exoskeleton-assisted rehabilitation can be beneficial for stroke survivors, correcting impaired walking patterns and increasing motor coordination. The study used the Ekso 1.1 exoskeleton to guide patients with chronic post-stroke hemiplegia or hemiparesis in a 10-15 session training program over thre...
Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis have developed a method to produce synthetic muscle protein using microbes, which can be spun into fibers with exceptional toughness and strength. The resulting material has potential biomedical applications, such as sutures and tissue engineering.
A research study is being conducted to understand muscle fatigue in older adults, with a focus on its effects on mobility and daily activities. The study aims to develop a new metric called fatigability to assess an individual's change in performance and perceived effort in response to standardized activity.
A mathematical model developed by researchers at the University of Cambridge can predict the optimum exercise regime for building muscle. The model takes into account individual physiology and optimizes exercise regimes based on user input, promising to maximize athletes' potential.
A deep learning tool for sarcopenia assessment on CT scans shows similar utility in predicting hip fractures and death at both L1 and L3 vertebral levels. Muscle attenuation measurements performed better than muscle area assessments, likely due to the inclusion of intramuscular fat.
New research from the University of Arkansas finds that prior training can accelerate muscle growth and response even after extended idleness. Previously trained muscles in mice responded with more sensitivity and grew more rapidly than previously untrained muscles, thanks to epigenetic changes in DNA.
A systematic review of epidemiological studies found that muscle strengthening exercises associated with aerobic activities can significantly reduce cancer mortality. The analysis suggested that strength training twice a week can protect against cancer, with the benefit being even greater when combined with aerobic activities.
A new study developed a wearable technology-based method to assess myoclonus symptoms in the home environment. The method, which measures electrical neuromuscular function and movement, correlates well with assessments performed by experienced physicians.
A new clinical trial will test a simple breathing exercise for adults with obstructive sleep apnea and hypertension. The study aims to reduce blood pressure and improve cardiovascular health through inspiratory muscle training.
A recent study found that a muscle protein called CaMKII improves strength, endurance, and fitness in young animals, but also contributes to an evolutionary tradeoff: increased susceptibility to age-related diseases. The research suggests that future therapies targeting CaMKII could stave off diseases of old age.
Scientists at the University of Copenhagen have discovered that exercise can alter the structure of our DNA, specifically the enhancers that regulate gene expression. This epigenetic rewiring may be responsible for the beneficial effects of physical activity on human health.
A compassionate-use study released in STEM CELLS Translational Medicine found significant improvement in body muscles with mesenchymal stem cells derived from Wharton's jelly, a substance in the umbilical cord. The treatment resulted in improved muscle strength and function without serious side effects.
The FDA has approved Octagam 10% for treating adult dermatomyositis, a rare immune-mediated inflammatory disease. The approval is based on positive results of the ProDERM study, which showed significant improvement in patient response to treatment.
Researchers at UMD developed a supplement that improves pig muscle growth, which could lead to increased sustainability in the pork industry. The study also explored potential applications in human health, including improved immune function and reduced inflammation.
Researchers found that consuming protein at breakfast increases skeletal muscle growth and function in humans, as seen in a study of women aged 65 and above. The study's findings suggest that the timing of protein intake is crucial for maintaining skeletal muscle health, with early morning consumption being particularly beneficial.
Texas A&M researchers found that sea otters' muscles use thermogenic leak to generate heat, allowing them to thrive in cold water. This finding explains how otters maintain their high metabolic rate and survive in marine environments.
NRF2 helps keep muscles from weakening in low gravity by regulating oxidative stress. In mice, NRF2 deficiency accelerates fast-twitch fiber type transition and changes energy metabolism during space flight.
A systematic review and meta-analysis found that muscle relaxants have a small effect on reducing pain intensity in the short term, but this effect is not clinically meaningful. The use of muscle relaxants may also increase the risk of side effects such as dizziness and nausea.
Researchers at Kumamoto University discovered that muscles and satellite cells retain positional memory from fetal life, based on the expression pattern of the homeobox (Hox) gene cluster. This finding is expected to provide insights into the pathogenesis of muscle diseases and develop regenerative medicine.
A mutation in the C9orf72 gene may disrupt communication between motor neurons and muscles in ALS patients, leading to motor disorders, muscle atrophy, and mortality. The study reveals that the loss of function induced by the mutation affects synaptic transmission and protein TDP-43's location within the cell.
Dr. Brian Clark, Ohio University professor, has received a five-year, nearly $3 million NIH grant to investigate age-related changes in motor neuron excitability. The study will examine the role of motor neurons in health and disease, with potential implications for developing interventions to improve physical function in older adults.
A study published in iScience has identified dozens of muscle proteins with decreased quantities in individuals with prediabetes and type 2 diabetes. The findings highlight the significance of mitochondrial energy metabolism in the progression from prediabetes to type 2 diabetes.
Researchers at Northwestern University and Shirley Ryan AbilityLab have discovered that muscles lose sarcomeres -- their smallest building blocks -- after a stroke. This loss results in shorter muscle fibers and tighter muscles, making it harder for patients to regain function.
A new fluorescent reporter mouse line enables direct analysis of mitophagy activity in vivo. Increased levels of mitophagy activity were observed in atrophic soleus muscles following hindlimb immobilization, revealing muscle disuse increases mitophagy.
Researchers identified a rare genetic mutation causing severe muscle damage and heart failure in children. Experimental approaches for treatment were successful in mice, offering hope for potential therapies.
A new study reveals that high genetic running capacity promotes more efficient amino acid metabolism in skeletal muscle, potentially contributing to healthier metabolism with aging. Adipose tissue may also play a key role in promoting healthy aging, contradicting previous assumptions.
Researchers at Tokyo Medical and Dental University found that a diet of soft or regular food affects muscle control and electrical activity of the jaw when stimulated, influencing the regulation of chewing. This study suggests that increasing chewing difficulty may alter brain control, with potential benefits for monitoring and improvi...
Research by Colette Feehan suggests that voice actors' unique vocalizations can help speech pathologists better understand the muscles involved in creating words and sounds. This knowledge could lead to alternative pronunciations for individuals with speech difficulties, such as those with lost muscle tone due to a stroke or cancer.
Researchers discovered that songbirds have fine control over their songs, including frequency control below one Hertz, and can activate single muscle fibers simultaneously. This high level of control is crucial for female attraction and speciation.
Researchers found that elephants can store up to nine liters of water by dilating their nostrils, allowing them to suck up three liters per second. This unique ability has inspired the development of more efficient robots using air motion, and may also help conservation efforts for endangered elephant species.
Researchers at Aarhus University developed biocompatible electrodes for electrical muscle stimulation and integrated them into medical support stockings. The study found that the stockings counteracted significant muscle loss in bedridden Covid patients, reversing a 10% decline in muscle mass after five to six days of hospitalization.
Researchers found that oligo DNA promotes muscle differentiation and reduces inflammation in myoblasts, exacerbating diabetes. This discovery holds potential for developing a therapeutic agent to treat muscle wasting associated with various diseases.
A new study published in Nature Communications reveals clues about molecular changes underlying muscle loss tied to aging. The researchers found that using molecular compounds increased the regeneration of muscle cells in mice by activating precursors of muscle cells, called myogenic progenitors.
Researchers have deciphered how tendon cells adapt to physical demands, revealing a molecular force sensor that promotes stiffness. A gene variant associated with West African ancestry enhances jumping performance in humans by 13%, suggesting its potential role in elite athletic success.
A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of São Paulo found that healthy young adults on vegan or omnivorous diets with adequate protein intake gained equivalent muscle mass. The key to this finding lies in the level of protein intake, rather than the source.
A study using a mouse model of eccentric contraction revealed that icing injured muscles delays muscle regeneration. The phenomenon is linked to pro-inflammatory macrophages' ability to infiltrate damaged cells, delaying the healing process.
Researchers at the University of Tsukuba found that both endurance and high-intensity intermittent training improved exercise capacity and brain function in rats. HIIT resulted in increased cellular aerobic capacity and better memory for spatial learning trials.
A team of McMaster University researchers found that stair-climbing routines provide significant cardiovascular and muscular benefits for heart patients. Brief, vigorous stair-climbing and traditional moderate-intensity exercise both changed fitness levels, which is a key predictor of mortality after a cardiac event.
Rice University bioengineers have created electrospun scaffolds from decellularized skeletal muscle that mimic native tissue and direct the growth of myotubes. The tunable scaffolds promote muscle regeneration with minimal crosslinking agents, offering a promising solution for reconstructive surgeries.
Scientists found that wild orangutans on Borneo have lower muscle mass when fruit is scarce, a surprising finding given their ability to survive food shortages. Conservation plans must consider fruit availability to protect these critically endangered primates.
Researchers have developed biofabricated muscle substitutes that can restore significantly injured skeletal muscles with unprecedented efficiency. These biocompatible gel-like structures mimic the native muscle structure and can be created using 3D bioprinting, allowing for faster and more effective recovery from severe muscle mass loss.
Researchers created a bioengineering approach for functional muscle regeneration by combining biochemical signals and topographical cues. The technique improved muscle function restoration in injured rats, with over 80% recovery rate, and integrated well with neural and vascular systems.
Researchers at George Mason University are developing a wearable adhesive ultrasound sensor for biofeedback and rehabilitation following musculoskeletal injuries. The proposed technology allows for dynamic assessment of movement and functional measures, enabling personalized treatment plans to reduce recovery times.
Researchers from the University of Tsukuba sent mice to space to study the effects of microgravity on muscle atrophy. The team found that artificial gravity prevented changes in gene expression and muscle wasting in mice.
Researchers identified a new genetic mutation causing progressive muscle damage, shedding light on the function of over 4,000 genes associated with hereditary diseases. The study's findings provide crucial insights into the development of muscle cells and their ability to recover.
Researchers create a novel actuator driven by genetically modified biomolecular motors that can be printed using existing 3D techniques. The artificial muscle mimics natural muscle fibers, allowing for contraction and amplification of force from a molecular scale to millimeter one.
A revolutionary assistive technology called Earswitch allows people with Motor Neurone Disease (MND) to communicate by tensing a tiny muscle in their ear. The device uses the tensor tympani muscle, which can be controlled voluntarily, and offers a new way for individuals with severe communications restrictions to express themselves.
Researchers have developed a 3D model using patient cells to simulate the disease, enabling fast and cost-effective testing of drugs. The model has validated the effectiveness of previously tested drugs, opening new avenues for finding personalized treatments.
Researchers have successfully used CRISPR-Cas9 technology to edit genetic mutations in patients with muscular dystrophy, enabling the development of a potential therapy. The treatment involves removing stem cells from a patient's muscle tissue, editing them outside the body, and then injecting them back into the muscle.
A simple device improved care after kidney transplantation by reducing swelling, hospital stays, and surgical site infections. Patients experienced a 31% reduction in swelling and a 60% decrease in wound infection rates.
Becker disease is caused by unusual electrical activity in muscle fibers, leading to temporary inactivity and weakness. Researchers identify the mechanisms behind this phenomenon and propose potential new therapies.
A study by the University of Southern Denmark found that Football Fitness improves balance, strengthens muscles, and increases bone density in women treated for breast cancer. The 12-month training program reduced the risk of falls and broken bones, making everyday activities easier.
Scientists at Lund University discovered a key role for the VPS39 gene in regulating muscle stem cells' ability to create new mature muscle cells. The study found that individuals with type 2 diabetes have altered epigenetic patterns and impaired sugar uptake, leading to compromised muscle function.
Researchers at the University of Cincinnati found that a protein in skeletal muscle fibers regulates the body's fight or flight response, enabling quick bursts of power. This discovery may lead to advancements in understanding and addressing skeletal muscular disorders.
Researchers created mini-chambers on a microfluidic device where human motor neurons and skeletal muscle cells grew, forming neuromuscular junctions. The study found that ALS motor neurons formed fewer connections and regenerated axons less efficiently than healthy ones.
A comprehensive study in mice reveals a roadmap of muscle decline with age, identifying key molecular mechanisms and potential new treatments. Klotho supplementation improved muscle strength in old but not oldest-old mice, suggesting earlier intervention may prevent declines.
A recent study by Kanazawa University researchers found that leg muscle action can improve blood flow independently of age. The study used MRI imaging to measure changes in blood flow and pump action in the legs of healthy volunteers aged 24, 47, and 72 years.
A mouse study found that vitamin D deficiency impairs skeletal muscle mitochondrial function, leading to reduced energy production and potentially poor muscle strength. The study suggests that preventing vitamin D deficiency in older adults could help maintain better muscle function and reduce age-related muscle deterioration.
Researchers at the University of Cincinnati have developed a new treatment for Pompe disease, a genetic condition that affects 1 in 40,000 people in the US. The treatment has been shown to be safer and more effective than current therapy, improving respiratory muscle function, endurance, and overall quality of life.
A revised handgrip cutoff value of 32 kg for men and 21 kg for women can accurately identify mobility impairment, increasing the likelihood of early diagnosis by 88% for men and 89% for women. This revised metric promotes preventive treatment to avoid muscle weakness and mobility loss.