INFLUENCE OF ESTROGEN ON MUSCLE PLASTICITY

TIIDUS, P. M. Influence of estrogen on muscle plasticity. Brazilian Journal of Biomotricity. v. 4, n. 3, p. 143-155, 2011. Estrogen and hormone replacement therapy (HRT) have been demonstrated to have significant benefits to metabolic health and skeletal muscle function in animal models. More recently these benefits have also been reproduced in post-menopausal human females. Estrogen and HRT will diminish exercise induced muscle damage and inflammation via stabilizing effects on muscle membranes and calcium channels. Estrogen and HRT will also enhance muscle repair and augment muscle size via effects on satellite cell activation and proliferation. In addition estrogen and HRT will augment muscle strength through direct action on myosin which will enhance myosin strong binding during muscular contraction. These benefits could be important in the longer term maintenance of health, muscle functioning and independent living in older post-menopausal females. The use of HRT should be considered in some of these individuals in the context of the overall health advantages versus drawbacks this population.