An international research team discovered that the intestinal flora of mice plays an important role in the maintenance and function of skeletal muscle. In a paper published in the journal Science Translational Medicine, the research team described experiments and latest findings in wild and laboratory-raised mice. In the past few years, scientists have discovered that the intestinal flora of humans and other animals plays a far greater role than previously thought. In addition to processed foods, the intestinal flora also plays an important role in the immunity and regulation of cholesterol and triglycerides. Imbalance of intestinal flora is related to Crohn's disease, irritable bowel syndrome and other inflammatory diseases. The researchers currently engaged in this new study have found new evidence that at least in mice, the intestinal flora can maintain an appropriate amount of skeletal muscle and its function.
Skeletal muscle is one of the three main muscle types, the other two are the heart type and the smooth type. Skeletal muscle sounds like-a series of muscle movements connected to the bones, especially controlling the limbs. To further understand the potential impact of microorganisms on skeletal muscle quality, the researchers obtained several wild mice and compared them with sterile mice (mice that do not contain any microorganisms). Compared with wild mice, sterile mice have skeletal muscle atrophy. They express fewer chemicals and can support muscle growth. The researchers found that the levels of various amino acids in mice lacking the microbiome were higher than normal. This is a sign of liver problems. They also found low levels of acetylcholine precursors in mice. Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter involved in signal transmission between skeletal muscles and nerves. The researchers also found that transplanting substances containing wild mouse gut microbes into the intestines of sterile mice can increase muscle mass and function. They also found that the fatty acids produced by the gut microbes can also partially restore muscle mass when given to sterile mice.