Work

Astaxanthin alleviates oxidative stress and skeletal muscle damage by promoting mitochondrial biogenesis

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Introduction: This study aimed to investigate the damaging effects of a high-fat diet (HFD) on mitochondria and skeletal muscle and to evaluate the protective role of astaxanthin (Asta), with a focus on mitochondrial biogenesis, oxidative stress, and inflammation under metabolic stress. Methods: HFD-fed mice and palmitate acid (PA)-stimulated C2C12 cells were treated with Asta. Skeletal muscle function, pathology, mitochondrial ultrastructure, inflammatory responses, and oxidative stress levels were assessed using behavioral tests, histology, quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, western blotting, transmission electron microscopy, and biochemical assays. Results: models, Asta suppressed inflammatory gene expression, enhanced mitochondrial biogenesis-related proteins, reduced lipid accumulation and mitochondrial damage, increased antioxidant enzyme activity, and promoted ATP production. Furthermore, Asta inhibited mitochondrial fission and lipid peroxidation in PA-stimulated C2C12 cells. Discussion: Asta mitigates oxidative stress, lipid accumulation, and inflammation in skeletal muscle cells by promoting mitochondrial biogenesis, thereby preserving muscle structure and function. These findings highlight Asta's potential as a therapeutic agent for skeletal muscle protection in metabolic stress conditions.

Source: Frontiers in Veterinary Science

DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2025.1577408

Authors: Chengmu Li, Yining Yan, Kai Wang, Tao Jiang

Institutions: Army Medical University, Second Military Medical University, Jilin University, Xi'an Honghui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University

Language: English

Topic: Muscle Physiology and Disorders

Subfield: Molecular Biology

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,801