Possible Gene That Can Repair Muscles

 

Scientists at the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS), found cells that could repair muscle loss. These cells called, satellite cells are cells that activate themselves to build muscle mass after muscle has been lost over a long period of time or injury. If someone loses muscle then begins to gain it back after a long period of time then these satellite cells will kick in. People who have Duchenne muscular dystrophy have an increase in muscle loss. So, with the help of satellite cells regenerating themselves, these patients are able to gain muscle mass back. Eventually satellite cells will stop working as people age but they can help elderly people from hurting themselves by falling and also those with arthritis. Research has shown that the gene Ezh2 may be able to promote satellite cell degeneration. With this research within the gene, Ezh2, scientists may be able to treat a muscles disease patient's lifespan by expanding the satellites cell life. This is good news for those with muscle disease and arthritis.