Effects of melatonin on dystrophic skeletal muscle regeneration after low-intensity aerobic exercise: an experimental study

• Grant number: 19/18542-0
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: August 01, 2020
• End date: January 31, 2022
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy
• Principal Investigator: Anabelle Silva Cornachione
• Grantee: Maria Paula Guerreiro
• Host Institution: Centro de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde (CCBS). Universidade Federal de São Carlos (UFSCAR). São Carlos , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) is part of the group of Progressive Muscular Dystrophies (WMD) of a serious and lethal nature. DMD is determined by the mutation of the short arm of the X chromosome, Xp21 locus, responsible for the production of the protein dystrophin. This protein is responsible for maintaining the integrity of the cell. Due to its absence, the muscle becomes more susceptible to injury, presenting progressive loss of muscle fibers by degeneration, thus determining significant muscle weakness. Being a disease that has no cure, more and more different therapeutic resources are aimed at delaying or even minimizing the devastating impact of disease progression. Low intensity physical exercise is being investigated as a promising resource. Associated with this, there are some drugs that can potentiate the beneficial effects of exercise, such as melatonin. This endogenous hormone produced by the pineal gland, has been shown an important role in the regeneration of skeletal muscle, when exogenously administered, following lesions determined by physical exercise, due to its anti-inflammatory effect. Therefore, the objective of this study will be to analyze the effects of melatonin associated with low intensity aerobic exercise in the skeletal muscle of mdx mice, after chronic treatment. Methods: 18 male mice divided into three groups of mdx animals (n = 6 C57BL / 10-Dmdmdx Sedentary) will be used; (n = 6-C57BL / 10-Dmdmdx Extracted + Melatonin) and (n = 6-C57BL / 10-Dmdmdx Melatonin). Expected results: Melatonin is expected to potentiate the beneficial effects of exercise.