Apoptotic changes in a full-lengthened immobilization model of rat soleus muscle

Introduction: Lengthened immobilization may prevent muscle shortening, and help maintain normal muscle length. However, its apoptotic effects remain unclear. We evaluated the effects of long-term immobilization on apoptotic proteins. Methods: Rat soleus muscles were immobilized by casting in a neutral (NEUT) or lengthened (LENG) position for 21 days. We evaluated dynamic weight load and muscle atrophy following the 21-day period using hematoxylin and eosin staining. We measured Bax (pro-apoptotic Bcl-2 family member), MyoD (myogenic differentiation factor D), MYH (myosin heavy chain), and cleaved poly(ADP-ribose)polymerase levels and examined apoptotic nucleus expression. Results: Decreased dynamic weight load and muscle atrophy changes were observed in LENG. Both NEUT and LENG showed significantly reduced levels of MYH. LENG showed a significant increase in Bax and MyoD expression as well as in the number of apoptotic nuclei. Conclusions: Long-term lengthened immobilization may increase apoptotic changes and decrease muscle formation proteins in muscle. Muscle Nerve, 2018.