Muscle epigenome

We investigate how the muscle epigenome responds to extracellular cues, in particular (changes in) nutrition and exercise. Specifically, we study (changes in) post-translational histone modifications that are closely linked to cellular metabolism, including histone acetylation and histone lactylation. Further, we also link these histone modifications, which are known for their activating properties, to gene expression changes and associated phenotypic outcomes, indicative of muscle functioning. The goal of this project is to identify easily accessible strategies that can support and promote muscle health and performance. We aim to explore methods that benefit healthy persons as well as persons with impaired muscle functioning, such as patients suffering from metabolic and/or muscle disorders and–most notably–the elderly. By focusing on nutrition and exercise interventions, we aim to uncover broadly accessible and low-investment approaches. Moreover, by targeting the cellular metabolism, the results of our research might also benefit scientific endeavours aimed at curing and/or preventing obesity, which is a major risk factor for multiple non-communicable diseases (including musculoskeletal disorders) and premature death, and which affects >13% of the global population.