Circ-ZNF609: a novel regulator of myogenesis

Skeletal muscle is the most abundant tissue in the body. It is composed by striated myofibers consisting of multinucleated syncytia deriving from proliferation and fusion of myogenic progenitor cells. As other terminally differentiated tissues, the skeletal muscle retains the ability to regenerate after damage, reactivating the myogenic process normally occurring in the embryonal and fetal life. Indeed, in postnatal skeletal muscle, a fraction of myogenic progenitors, namely satellite cells, remains quiescent in close proximity to myofiber basal membrane, ready to be reactivated in case of need. Despite such regenerative ability, however, altered muscle homeostasis is a frequent feature in both physiological (e.g., aging) and pathological states, such as muscle dystrophies, cancer, diabetes and neuromuscular diseases. As a result, the quality of life is severely compromised, rendering difficult to perform normal daily activities as well as impairing both tolerance and effectiveness of therapeutic regimens.