Effects of ursolic acid on sub-lesional muscle pathology in a contusion model of spinal cord injury

Spinal cord injuries often lead to muscle wasting and changes in muscle fiber types below the injury site, impacting movement and metabolism. Ursolic acid, a natural compound, has shown promise in promoting muscle growth. This study investigates its effects on muscle health after spinal cord injury in mice. The study found that ursolic acid treatment improved muscle signaling, reduced the activity of genes that break down muscle, and improved muscle mass and function in mice with spinal cord injuries.

• 1
  Ursolic acid treatment attenuates SCI induced decreases in activated forms of mTOR, and signaling intermediates PI3K, AKT, and S6K.
• 2
  Ursolic acid reduces the upregulation of catabolic genes including FOXO1, MAFbx, MURF-1, and PSMD11 after spinal cord injury.
• 3
  Ursolic acid improves SCI induced deficits in body and sub-lesional muscle mass, as well as functional outcomes related to muscle function, motor coordination, and strength.