Molecular and functional analysis of taurine mechanism of action in C2C12 cells in culture medium with amino acids restrictions

• Grant number: 16/08543-1
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: July 01, 2016
• End date: December 31, 2016
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Physiology - Physiology of Organs and Systems
• Principal Investigator: Everardo Magalhães Carneiro
• Grantee: Gabriel Gerardini Zanetti
• Host Institution: Instituto de Biologia (IB). Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP). Campinas , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 14/01717-9 - Investigation of the insulinotropic, insulinomimetic and endothelial actions of taurine in cells/tissues submitted to an in vitro amino acid restriction: an integrated and multifocal approach, AP.TEM

Abstract

Malnutrition is still affects many developing countries. It has been associated to other disorders such as obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Rodents subjected to protein restriction during pregnancy and lactation presents changes in the insulin secretion capacity and increased peripheral insulin sensitivity as well. Taurine (TAU) is a nonessential amino acid that participates in many physiological processes, including glucose homeostasis, and consequently, glycemic control. The role of TAU on protein malnourishment conditions is still poorly understood and highlights the need of more studies in order to elucidate the mechanisms responsible for triggering its effects. The aim of this project is to investigate the molecular mechanisms associated to the effects of TAU on the peripheral insulin sensitivity modulation observed in malnourishment conditions. To achieve this objective, we will use mice skeletal muscle cell line (C2C12). Once differentiated to myotubes, the cells will grow in control culture medium (100% amino acid) or restricted aminoacids medium (25 % amino acids) supplemented or not with TAU. Afterwards, it will be validate cell viability by incorporation of propidium iodide and Hoechst 33342 (HoPi), glucose uptake and insulin signaling pathway by Western blot.