SAHA Enhances Recovery in Athletes Following Severe Muscle Trauma by Inhibiting Myocyte Apoptosis and Modulating Inflammatory Responses: Mechanisms and Implications

Abstract

Objective: To examine the effects of SAHA on recovery and inflammation modulation in athletes experiencing severe muscle trauma, and to explore the underlying mechanisms.

Methods: Twenty-four male athletes were subjected to a simulated severe muscle trauma scenario, mimicking a high-intensity injury common in sports. Participants were randomly assigned into three groups: a control group, a trauma group, and a SAHA treatment group, with eight athletes in each. The trauma and SAHA groups underwent a muscle injury simulation, while the SAHA group received an intraperitoneal injection of 7.5 mg/kg SAHA post-injury. The control group underwent a mild physical stress test as a sham procedure. Key biomarkers of muscle damage and inflammation, including creatine kinase (CK), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), nitric oxide (NO) levels, and caspase-3 activity were measured and compared across the groups.

Results: The SAHA treatment group demonstrated significantly reduced levels of CK, TNF-α, and caspase-3 activity compared to the trauma group, indicating decreased muscle damage and inflammation. Additionally, NO levels and hypoxia-inducible factor-1 alpha (HIF-1α) expressions were modulated, suggesting enhanced tissue oxygenation and survival pathways activation. The athletes in the SAHA group also reported quicker recovery of physical function.

Conclusion: SAHA administration following severe muscle trauma can significantly enhance recovery in athletes by reducing muscle damage and modulating inflammatory responses. The therapeutic effects of SAHA may be attributed to its role in promoting anti-inflammatory pathways and inhibiting apoptosis in muscle cells. These findings suggest potential applications of SAHA in sports medicine for managing acute muscle injuries