Immunofluorescent approaches to investigate the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) complex in human skeletal muscle

Song, Zhe (2015). Immunofluorescent approaches to investigate the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) complex in human skeletal muscle. University of Birmingham. Ph.D.

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Abstract

The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) complex is a key regulator of protein synthesis, with resistance exercise and protein ingestion both shown to increase mTOR activity in human skeletal muscle. It has recently been proposed that mTOR activity is regulated via its intracellular localization and protein complex interaction. However, no research to date has examined this process in human skeletal muscle. Accordingly, the aims of this thesis were to (1) develop immunofluorescent-based methodologies to study mTOR in human skeletal muscle, and (2) apply this approach to the study of mTOR in acute and chronic resistance exercise scenarios.
This thesis describes a novel approach to study mTOR regulation in human skeletal muscle \(in\) \(vivo\). Taking advantage of this approach, novel data was presented on mTOR distribution, translocation and association with regulators in response to resistance exercise in human skeletal muscle in vivo. It is hoped that this approach will provide insight into the cellular regulation of skeletal muscle protein synthesis and by extension the control of skeletal muscle mass in humans during scenarios of health and chronic disease.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Ph.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Ph.D.

Supervisor(s):