Muscle memory discovery ends 'use it or lose it' dogma (2019)

Recent research has challenged the long-held belief that muscle nuclei are lost when muscles atrophy due to disuse, supporting the concept of muscle memory. A review published in Frontiers in Physiology indicates that the nuclei gained during training persist even when muscle fibers shrink. This retention of myonuclei allows for quicker muscle recovery and growth when retraining occurs, suggesting that individuals can "bank" muscle growth potential during their youth to mitigate frailty in old age. The findings also have implications for competitive sports, as they highlight the long-term benefits of anabolic steroid use, which can lead to permanent increases in muscle development capacity. The research emphasizes the importance of exercise during adolescence, a period when muscle growth is enhanced by hormones and nutrition, to maximize the retention of myonuclei for future physical activity. Overall, the study suggests a shift in understanding muscle biology, moving away from the "use it or lose it" paradigm to a more nuanced view that recognizes the lasting impact of early physical training.

- Muscle nuclei gained during training persist even during muscle atrophy.

- Retained myonuclei facilitate faster muscle recovery and growth upon retraining.

- The findings support the idea of "banking" muscle growth potential in youth.

- Anabolic steroids can lead to permanent increases in muscle development capacity.

- Emphasizes the importance of exercise during adolescence for long-term health benefits.