The Effect of the Microbiota Metabolite – Butyric Acid on Motor Coordination, Muscle Strength and the Level of Oxidative Stress in Skeletal Muscles in Mice with Dysbiosis

Abstract

According to modern concepts, the composition and diversity of the intestinal microbiota play an essential role in maintaining immunity, homeostasis, and, in general, the physiological functions of the host organism. Recently the positive role of the microbiota and its metabolites especially short-chain fatty acids, in the metabolism and functional activity of skeletal muscles was reported. The aim of our work was to analyze muscle strength and motor coordination in mice after injection of broad–spectrum antibiotics with simultaneous administration of a microbiota metabolite – one of the representatives of short-chain fatty acids – butyric acid. In addition, we determined the level of malondialdehyde, the concentration of total glutathione and the activity of glutathione peroxidases in the muscles of the hind limbs in mice with administration of antibiotics and butyric acid. The administration of antibiotics to adolescent mice for two weeks induced higher mortality and decrease of weight, and also caused significant changes in motor behavior, including an increase in horizontal motor activity, decrease in vertical motor activity, muscle strength, and motor coordination. A higher level of oxidative stress was found in the muscle tissues of the hind limbs of mice treated with antibiotics. At the same time, oral administration of butyric acid prevented the observed changes and improved not only behavioral disorders, but also partially reduced the level of oxidative stress. In conclusion, metabolite of normal microbiota has a positive effect on the functional and biochemical parameters of skeletal muscles in dysbiosis, which can be used to prevent loss of muscle function in various pathological conditions.