Integration of signals generated by nutrients, hormones, and exercise in skeletal muscle

Abstract

This review focuses on anabolic signaling pathways through which insulin, amino acids, and resistance exercise act to regulate the protein kinase complex referred to as mechanistic target of rapamycin complex (mTORC) 1. Initially, individual pathways through which the 3 anabolic signals act to modulate mTORC1 signaling will be discussed, followed by a summation of evidence showing an additive effect of the regulators. The emphasis will be on mTORC1 signaling in skeletal muscle and its contribution to modulation of rates of protein synthesis. In addition, results from studies using cells in culture will be used to provide a more complete picture of the molecular details of the individual pathways. © 2014 American Society for Nutrition.