Pyrene exposure induces activation and differentiation of cultured satellite cells in Northern Leopard frogs

It has been demonstrated that pyrene exposure negatively affects muscle contractility and exercise performance in Northern Leopard frogs. In light of the fact that depuration can reverse the detrimental effects of pyrene exposure, it is possible that pyrene leads to proliferation and differentiation of satellite cells, a conserved niche of stem cells able to form myotubes. In the present study, satellite cells were isolated from control and pyrene‐exposed frogs. A significant cell activation and differentiation was observed in cells cultured from muscles of pyrene‐exposed frogs. Comparable results were seen following an in vitro exposure of cultured cells to pyrene. Moreover, western blot analyses from isolated muscle tissue revealed that the concentrations of PAX3/PAX7 and Myogenin were significantly altered following pyrene exposure. These data suggests that pyrene, and other polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, are myotoxins that may lead to activation of muscle repair mechanisms via proliferation and differentiation of satellite cells. Funding was provided by Bjorklund Research Funds, and the Bradley University Biology Department and LAS Dean's Office.