Research

Hormonal

mTORC1 signaling is the central regulator of skeletal muscle mass, acting as a dual controller that promotes hypertrophy through protein synthesis and prevents atrophy by inhibiting catabolic pathways.

To maximize muscle growth, you must activate the mTOR pathway. This is achieved through resistance training (mechanical load), adequate protein intake (amino acids), and growth factors like IGF-1. Conversely, conditions that suppress mTOR (like severe caloric restriction, aging-related sarcopenia, or high cortisol) will hinder muscle maintenance. Prioritize resistance exercise and sufficient protein to keep this signaling pathway active.

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mTOR controls the anabolic and catabolic signaling of skeletal muscle mass, resulting in the modulation of muscle hypertrophy and muscle wastage.
Mee‐Sup Yoon · Frontiers in Physiology · 2017

Why this rating

Based on a comprehensive review of genetic knockout models and pharmacological evidence, though it is a review paper, not primary clinical data.

Source

mTOR as a Key Regulator in Maintaining Skeletal Muscle Mass

Mee‐Sup Yoon · Frontiers in Physiology · 2017

DOI 10.3389/fphys.2017.00788

narrative_reviewCited 486×
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DOI resolved against Crossref · corpus check 2026-06-10

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