This study focused on the gene for AMPK (adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase), which controls the amount of energy in our cells by becoming active when fuel stores start to deplete, such as during exercise. The mutation discovered in individuals from two unrelated families caused a doubling of AMPK activity in muscle during rest, mimicking a state of exercise.
The uOttawa research team led by Drs Mary-Ellen Harper, Robert Dent and Ruth McPherson, in collaboration with researchers in Berkeley California, also found that the mutation produces a decrease in the storage in muscle of fat and an increase in muscle glycogen. The discovery has implications for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, as high levels of fat stored in the muscle have been linked to insulin resistance. In addition, as metformin, a drug commonly used to both prevent and treat diabetes, acts by increasing AMPK activity, this discovery provides valuable information for pharmaceutical research. The findings will also be of great interest to exercise physiologists, as increased muscle glycogen enhances a person’s capacity for endurance exercise (e.g., marathon running).
Disclaimer
The following press release refers to an upcoming article in PLoS ONE. The release has been provided by the article authors and/or their institutions. Any opinions expressed in this are the personal views of the contributors, and do not necessarily represent the views or policies of PLoS. PLoS expressly disclaims any and all warranties and liability in connection with the information found in the release and article and your use of such information.
This significant discovery, made possible by grants from the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Ontario and the generous participation of patients and volunteers, is reported in the September 19 issue of the online, open-access journal, PLoS ONE.
Citation: Costford SR, Kavaslar N, Ahituv N, Chaudhry SN, Schackwitz WS, et al (2007) Gain-of-Function R225W Mutation in Human AMPKc3 Causing Increased Glycogen and Decreased Triglyceride in Skeletal Muscle. PLoS ONE 2(9): e903. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0000903
PLEASE ADD THE LINK TO THE PUBLISHED ARTICLE IN ONLINE VERSIONS OF YOUR REPORT (URL live from Sept. 19): http://www.plosone.org/doi/pone.0000903
PRESS ONLY PREVIEW: http://www.plos.org/press/pone-02-09-harper.pdf
Journal
PLoS ONE