Effects of polyphenols on skeletal muscle cells and underlying molecular mechanisms

doi:2012.16.3.127

Phys Act Nutr > Volume 16(3); 2012 > Article

Journal of Exercise Nutrition & Biochemistry 2012;16(3):127-132.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5717/jenb.2012.16.3.127

Abstract

Polyphenols are chemical compounds characterized by multiple phenolic hydroxyl groups. The aim of this review is to summarize the effects of polyphenols on skeletal muscle tissues with regard to the following three points: (1) up-regulation of oxidative properties via activation of AMP-activated kinase (AMPK), (2) prevention of necrosis of muscle tissue by suppression of tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) and necrosis factor kappa B (NF-κB) activity, and (3) enhancement of muscular function by proliferator gamma co-activator (PGC) -1α and AMPK. Although most of the studies are limited to cell cultures and experimental animal trials, and further studies are needed in human subjects, there is every indication that polyphenols are a beneficial supplementation for athletes.

Key Words: Polyphenols, Skeletal muscle, Sirt1, AMPK, TNF α, NF-κB