The role and regulation of PGC-1α and PGC-1β in skeletal muscle adaptation

Members of the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) coactivator-1 (PGC-1) family of proteins regulate mitochondrial biogenesis and function in the cell. PGC-1α and PGC-1β are highly expressed in skeletal muscle where they partner with numerous transcription factors to regulate energy metabolism. PGC-1α and PGC-1β not only control muscle oxidative capacity by influencing substrate metabolism and fibre type but also regulate essential cell processes in the muscle including angiogenesis, inflammation and neuromuscular junction formation. Positive adaption to exercise increases the expression of the PGC-1 family members in muscle, while conditions associated with muscle atrophy and perturbed metabolic function are often associated with a reduction in PGC-1 levels.