Auraptene Attenuates Dexamethasone-Induced Muscle Atrophy via beta Hydroxybutyrate-Mediated Enhancement of Mitochondrial Biogenesis and Protein Synthesis

This study investigates the therapeutic potential of auraptene, AUR, a natural compound found in Poncirus trifoliata, in mitigating dexamethasone induced muscle atrophy and explores the underlying mechanisms. C2C12 myotubes were treated with AUR and evaluated for protein synthesis, degradation, and mitochondrial biogenesis markers. In vivo, mice were subjected to DEX induced muscle atrophy and treated with AUR or beta hydroxybutyrate orally. This study provides compelling evidence supporting the efficacy of AUR in improving muscle health through a multi-pronged mechanism involving the promotion of muscle protein synthesis, enhancement of mitochondrial function, and potential modulation of gut microbiota composition.