Effect of constitutive inactivation of the myostatin gene on the gain in muscle strength during postnatal growth in two murine models

Introduction: The effect of constitutive inactivation of the gene encoding myostatin on the gain in muscle performance during postnatal growth has not been well characterized. Methods: We analyzed 2 murine myostatin knockout (KO) models, (i) the Lee model (KOLee) and (ii) the Grobet model (KOGrobet), and measured the contraction of tibialis anterior muscle in situ. Results: Absolute maximal isometric force was increased in 6‐month‐old KOLee and KOGrobet mice, as compared to wild‐type mice. Similarly, absolute maximal power was increased in 6‐month‐old KOLee mice. In contrast, specific maximal force (relative maximal force per unit of muscle mass was decreased in all 6‐month‐old male and female KO mice, except in 6‐month‐old female KOGrobet mice, whereas specific maximal power was reduced only in male KOLee mice. Conclusions: Genetic inactivation of myostatin increases maximal force and power, but in return it reduces muscle quality, particularly in male mice. Muscle Nerve 55: 254–261, 2017

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