Celastrol and Cblin peptide activation of IGF-1 signaling prevents microgravity-induced atrophy in rat L6 myotubes

This study evaluated the effects of celastrol and the Cblin peptide in mitigating muscle atrophy under microgravity conditions. Both compounds alleviated myotube atrophy through distinct mechanisms, though no synergistic effect was observed. Celastrol upregulated heat shock protein (HSP) expression, whereas Cblin prevented IRS-1 degradation, thereby enhancing IGF-1 signaling. Sourced from Tripterygium wilfordii and soybean protein, respectively, these agents may serve as functional space foods to help counteract muscle atrophy and support astronauts’ health during spaceflight.