Skeletal muscle makes up almost half of our body weight and is essential for movement, posture, metabolism, and temperature regulation. Aging, chronic disease, cancer, immobilization, and bed rest can trigger atrophy, leading to loss of muscle mass and strength. Our research aims to uncover the molecular, genetic, and cellular mechanisms underlying this process to establish effective treatments and prevention strategies that preserve mobility, independence, and quality of life.
reNEW research
In the Geijsen Lab at reNEW Leiden, we study the mechanisms behind skeletal muscle atrophy. Using a mouse model of hindlimb immobilization to induce atrophy, we isolate single myofibers and culture them in vitro to examine the cellular response of satellite cells, the muscle stem cells responsible for repairing damaged tissue. By tracking how these cells behave under atrophic conditions, we will be able to understand the mechanisms driving muscle loss and identify ways to support recovery.
Image description
Atrophic muscle fiber cultured for 3 days: laminin (cyan), nuclei (magenta), satellite cells (white).
Credits
Sandra Batlles Parera, PhD student, Geijsen Lab, reNEW Leiden.
