The MYC gene plays a key role in the development and progression of many types of tumors, such as breast, prostate, ovarian, and lung cancer. According to various estimates, it is associated with 70% of cancer cases overall. Now, scientists have discovered that the MYC gene can stimulate muscle growth, mimicking exercise, according to the University of Arkansas website.
Experiments showed that MYC ranks third among the most important molecules within three hours of exercise, and becomes the leader after eight and 24 hours. These observations prompted scientists to specifically evaluate the role of MYC in muscle growth.
The hypothesis was confirmed: MYC alone stimulated muscle fiber growth and increased muscle mass without exercise. In other words, it mimicked the response to exercise.
While scientists cannot yet explain the entire mechanism involved in muscle development, they believe that "growth is growth" and MYC provides overall regulation, both in this case and in tumor growth.
Clearly, targeting the oncogene is unlikely to become a new treatment strategy for muscle atrophy and other diseases due to the unpredictability of complications associated with the risk of oncogenesis. Scientists plan to trace the entire signaling pathway and, using new drugs, activate target molecules without involving MYC.
Previously, other scientists identified key mechanisms of skeletal muscle regeneration and growth. Targeting these new molecules has already led to significant therapeutic results.
