SIGNALING PATHWAYS REGULATING PROTEIN-TURNOVER IN SKELETAL-MUSCLE

The protein content of skeletal muscle is determined by the relative r ates of synthesis and degradation which must be regulated coordinately to maintain equilibrium. However, in conditions such as fasting where amino acids are required for gluconeogenesis, or in cancer cachexia, this equilibrium is disrupted and a net loss of protein ensues. This r eview, utilising studies performed in several situations, summarizes t he current state of knowledge on the possible signalling pathways regu lating protein turnover in skeletal muscle and highlights areas for fu ture work. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science Inc.