Skeletal muscle mass, function, and metabolic regulation between menopause stages in moderately active mid-life females

This research aimed to determine the effect of menopause stage on skeletal muscle mass, strength and function and to evaluate the response to resistance exercise training between pre-, peri and post-menopausal mid-life females. Seventy one moderately active pre-, peri, and post-menopausal females were characterised cross-sectionally accounting for age, physical activity and protein intake. While total and appendicular lean mass were comparable across groups, rectus femoris muscle thickness was significantly smaller in post-menopause (1516%) compared to pre- and peri-menopause, indicating a muscle specific decline independent of age. Dynamic balance (posterolateral reach) was also lower in post-menopause. Integrated muscle protein synthesis (MPS) rates and gene expression associated with protein turnover did not differ between menopause groups. Greater protein intake (≥ 1.2 g/kg body mass) was positively associated with lean mass and may maintain muscle quality. Increased physical activity was positively associated with hip strength and dynamic balance. Participants completed a 12-week low impact resistance exercise training program (EXC) or maintained habitual physical activity (CON). EXC significantly increased hip strength (19-20%), dynamic balance (>10%), flexibility (21%) and lean mass (2%). These adaptations were comparable between pre-, peri- and post-menopause groups, suggesting lower sex steroid hormone concentrations do not impair muscle adaptation to training. However, integrated MPS rates remained comparable between EXC and CON, suggesting a disconnect between phenotypic adaptations and muscle protein synthesis response to the intervention. 3 In conclusion, although lower specific muscle thickness and dynamic balance were observed in post-menopause, the responsiveness to resistance exercise training is not impaired. Maintaining moderate levels of physical activity in line with present recommendations and greater dietary protein intake may mitigate menopause associated declines in skeletal muscle mass and function.<p></p>

Author dc:creator

• Erika Svensen (21041504)

• Uncategorised value

Statement dc:rights

• All rights reserved

Identifier

10779/exe.31883041.v1

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:figshare.com:article/31883041