The changes of muscle FGF-6 expression at different time points after exercise-induced muscle damage

To investigate the changes of fibroblast growth factor (FGF)-6 expression in the regeneration and repair process after exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD) and the relationship with skeletal muscle regeneration and repair.The expression of FGF-6 at different time points was examined by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and immunohistochemistry staining after a downhill treadmill exercise. Skeletal muscle injury and regeneration at different times after EIMD was assessed by haematoxylin and eosin (H and E) staining.The FGF-6 protein expression was initially elevated and followed by a gradual reduction, while the changes of FGF-6 mRNA were almost all raised after the treadmill exercise.The results point out that FGF-6 is closely related to skeletal muscle regeneration and repair, probably implying a dual function in muscle regeneration.