In the muscle universe, satellite cells are the brightest stars: they drive regeneration when muscle fibers are damaged. But in the context of immobilization in a cast, when muscles undergo atrophy and lose mass and strength, the role of satellite cells remains a mystery. Would satellite cells help muscles get back in shape?
Impact
Immobilization of a limb in a cast after a fall, or prolonged bed rest, often leaves the elderly struggling to recover. With age, muscles weaken and the regenerative capacity of satellite cells declines. By studying the mechanisms of atrophy and recovery and the cells involved, we aim to find ways to preserve mobility, independence, and quality of life.
reNEW research
We employ a mouse model of immobilization induced by placing a hindleg in a cast to trigger muscle atrophy, and follow the recovery once the cast is removed. We are mapping which genes are active during atrophy and recovery in different areas of the muscle, and studying the role of muscle-associated cells, including satellite cells.
Image description
On a muscle fiber, satellite cells (yellow) activate and proliferate beneath a dense laminin network (magenta), bursting into action to repair muscle and form new fibers. DAPI (white) marks nuclei.
Credits
Paola Pisterzi, Postdoc, Geijsen lab, reNEW Leiden.
