Mechanisms of regulation of skeletal muscle mass and metabolism

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Skeletal muscles play vital roles additional to their involvement in movement, as demonstrated by myriads of problems that develop when muscle mass/quality/functions are suboptimal. Muscles are a major contributor to whole body utilization and metabolism of nutrients like proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids. The overall focus of my research program is the basic understanding of the mechanisms by which nutrients in our foods and their metabolites regulate muscle mass and wellbeing under normal conditions, as well as in situations of muscle disorders Nutrients in our diets (called amino acids) can control the weight of our muscles but we do not know who they work. Studies in our research program suggest that breakdown of some of these amino acids may regulate formation of muscle cells. In the next 5 years of my research program, we will seek to understand why and how this works. We will carry out these objectives: 1.Examine mechanisms of regulation of the enzymes that control amino acid catabolism when muscle cells are formed. 2.Study whether factors that regulate formation of muscle cells also control breakdown of amino acids. 3.Examine if the enzymes that break down amino acids also control formation of muscle cells. 4.Study whether, when muscles are damaged or muscle mass diminishes because of other reasons, the actions of these enzymes are needed to repair muscle. We will use a combination of novel approaches and techniques to examine those topics. The knowledge gap that exists because of a lack of information on how nutrients we consume are used to regulate the mass of our muscles puts a limit on our understanding of the way our body works. Our work will help to bridge this gap. Results of our work may also help Canadians who want to gain more knowledge about how to keep their muscles in good condition and for much longer, and how to help their muscles get better if muscle damage happens. Research in my laboratory helps to train high quality personnel: in the last 6 years, I have trained 19 and am currently training 2 of such people, including undergraduate and graduate students. Some of these have gone on to become successful researchers; others are working in diverse industries, thus contributing to scientific and economic developments of Canada. I implement initiatives that will help to remove barriers to access and to promote recruitment, retention, and development of individuals in such a way as to open doors for as many qualified Canadians as possible. In the next 5 years, my research program will train at least 18 more high quality personnel that will contribute to science and economic developments of Canada.