Nerve-mediated control of the skeletal muscle fiber phenotype

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When nerves drive their muscle partners and make them work in a way that would prompt them to grow and become more energy efficient, calcium waves or oscillations are triggered in muscle cells that serve as a sort of molecular code. Calcineurin is an enzyme found in muscle cells that acts as a sensor for detection of these calcium waves or changing levels. We were the first to demonstrate novel features of this exciting molecule and its key role at the nexus of signaling pathways leading to skeletal muscle adaptations and growth. Calcineurin and its molecular partners are brought into play to decipher the calcium code and enact mechanisms that will eventually lead to the activation of genes necessary for muscle growth and muscle efficiency. As such, we liken the signals responsible for muscle growth to a perfect symphony with calcineurin acting as first violinist, taking the lead, but playing in concert with all other instruments in the orchestra.