Calcium Signaling in Skeletal Muscle Atrophy: A Novel Role for the ERG1alpha K+ Channel

Skeletal muscle atrophy is a loss of muscle mass and function that can rapidly ensue with the muscle disuse that often accompanies an injury or illness. It complicates the healing and recovery processes and interferes with an affected individuals ability to perform necessary duties. Current pharmacological therapies to combat atrophy are inadequate. Indeed exercise and good nutrition are the most beneficial treatments however, not all ill or injured individuals can exercise because of limitations imposed by the injury or illness. Thus, development of more effective treatments for preserving muscle tissue and promoting muscle growth is important and this will require greater knowledge of the cellular mechanisms contributing to atrophy. The ERG1A potassium channel has been shown to modulate proteolysis in skeletal muscle atrophy, however, the mechanism is not known. The goal of this project is to explore the role of the ERG1A channel in skeletal muscle atrophy, specifically the mechanism by which it increases intracellular calcium concentration and calpain activity. Through this work, we hope to open an area of research which will lead to discovery of new pharmacological targets for atrophy treatment.