Exercise Anabolic Response Attenuation refers to the diminished capacity of skeletal muscle to efficiently initiate or sustain muscle protein synthesis following a bout of resistance exercise. This blunted anabolic signaling, despite the mechanical stimulus and sufficient protein intake, is frequently observed in states of chronic physiological stress, advanced age, or metabolic disease. It represents a significant physiological roadblock, inhibiting the achievement of optimal muscle hypertrophy, strength gains, and recovery from training.
Origin
This term is a key construct within sports endocrinology and exercise physiology, specifically addressing the phenomenon where the expected muscle growth response to training is noticeably reduced. The word ‘attenuation’ signifies a measurable reduction in the force or magnitude of the anabolic signal. Research in this area seeks to identify the precise molecular and hormonal factors that interfere with muscle adaptation in various populations.
Mechanism
The attenuation is primarily mediated by an unfavorable shift in the anabolic-to-catabolic signaling ratio, often involving persistent elevation of glucocorticoids or the presence of systemic insulin resistance. Elevated cortisol levels can directly inhibit the critical mTORC1 signaling pathway, which is essential for initiating protein synthesis in muscle cells. Concurrently, an increase in pro-inflammatory cytokines can further interfere with the muscle cell’s sensitivity to insulin and other growth factors. This hormonal and inflammatory interference effectively overrides the mechanical signal, severely limiting muscle repair and growth.
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