Effects of transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β1) on satellite cell activation and survival during oxidative stress.

The regulation of adult skeletal muscle repair and regeneration is largely due to the contribution of resident adult myogenic precursor cells called satellite cells. The events preceding their participation in muscle repair include activation (exit from quiescence), proliferation, and differentiation. This study examined the effects of transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β1) on satellite cell activation, determined whether TGF-β1 could maintain quiescence in the presence of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), and whether the regulation of satellite cell activation with TGF-β1 improves the ability of satellite cells to withstand oxidative stress.