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 sources, it is associated with 70% of cancer cases in general. Now scientists have found that the MYC gene can stimulate muscle growth, imitating physical exercise, according to the University of Arkansas website.
Experiments have shown that MYC is the third most important molecule within three hours of training, and the leader after 8 and 24 hours. These observations have led scientists to specifically evaluate the role of MYC in muscle growth.
The hypothesis was confirmed: MYC itself stimulated muscle fiber growth and increased muscle mass without exercise. In other words, it mimicked the response to training.
While scientists cannot yet explain the entire mechanism involved in muscle development, they believe that “growth is growth” and MYC provides general regulation, both in this case and in tumor growth.
Obviously, targeting the oncogene is unlikely to become a new strategy for treating muscle atrophy and other diseases due to the unpredictability of complications against the background of oncogenesis risks. Scientists plan to trace the entire signaling pathway and activate target molecules without involving MYC using new drugs.
Previously, other scientists identified key mechanisms of skeletal muscle regeneration and growth. Targeting new molecules has already led to significant therapeutic results.