MOTS-c lowered levels of myostatin, a protein that inhibits muscle growth, in the muscles of immobilized mice.
Scientific Claim
In male C57BL/6J mice subjected to 8 days of hindlimb cast immobilization, MOTS-c administration (15 mg/kg/day) was associated with reduced myostatin expression in skeletal muscle compared to immobilized control mice.
Original Statement
“Immobilization-induced increased myostatin expression was suppressed by MOTS-c treatment (Fig. 1C).”
Evidence Quality Assessment
Claim Status
appropriately stated
Study Design Support
Design supports claim
Appropriate Language Strength
association
Can only show association/correlation
Assessment Explanation
The study is an animal cohort with no blinding confirmation, so causal language is inappropriate. The claim uses 'associated with' which correctly reflects the associative evidence.
Evidence from Studies
Supporting (1)
Mitochondrial-derived microprotein MOTS-c attenuates immobilization-induced skeletal muscle atrophy by suppressing lipid infiltration.