Changing Material Properties of the Muscle Extracellular Matrix:

A Possible Mechanism Explaining Impaired Mechanotransduction and Development of Sarcopenia

by

Dr. Zachary Domire

Associate Professor of Kinesiology

East Carolina University

11:00 AM – 11:50 AM – Friday, October 23, 2015

Location: McNair Hall Lecture Room 4

Abstract:

A common complaint associated with aging is a feeling of increased stiffness.  Our research has shown that at least in some individuals there are considerable increases in the passive material stiffness of muscle that may explain this sensation.  This change in muscle properties may impair movement, but also may impair the ability of muscles to sense mechanical loading.  Muscle is able to sense forces via strain sensors near the cell membrane.  Stiffening of the extracellular matrix would decrease strain for any given external load, thereby reducing the signal to adapt.  Our work has shown that muscle stiffness is related to muscle atrophy and that mechanical signaling is reduced in stiffer muscle. 

About the speaker:

Zachary Domire completed his Ph.D. in Kinesiology at The Pennsylvania State University and post postdoctoral training in Biomedical Engineering at The Mayo Clinic. He has previously held faculty positions at The University of Wyoming and Texas Tech University. He is currently an Associate Professor in Department of Kinesiology at East Carolina University. Dr. Domire’s work focuses on the impact of tissue material properties on physiological and mechanical function. He also conducts research on computer simulation of human movement.