MOTS-c reduced levels of several inflammatory proteins in the blood of immobilized mice, which may help reduce muscle damage.
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 lower plasma levels of IL-1β, IL-6, CXCL1, and MCP-1 compared to immobilized control mice.
Original Statement
“Eight days of cast immobilization dramatically increased plasma levels of IL-1β, IL-6, CXCL1, and MCP-1 (all P < 0.01), whereas MOTS-c treatment partially or completely suppressed the elevation of these cytokine levels (Supplemental Fig. S3, A–D).”
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.