University Chemistry ›› 2025, Vol. 40 ›› Issue (2): 247-250.doi: 10.12461/PKU.DXHX202405149

Special Issue:

• Science Education • Previous Articles     Next Articles

Unveiling the Molecular Mysteries inside Muscles

Zixiao Dou1, Zhizhong Shen1, Kin Shing Chan2   

  1. 1 Anbang Academy, College of First-Year Students, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China;
    2 School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
  • Received:2024-05-22 Accepted:2024-06-27 Published:2025-02-22
  • Contact: Kin Shing Chan E-mail:kschan@nju.edu.cn

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Abstract: This article narrates the challenges faced by protagonists Xiao Zhou and Xiao Huang as they resume exercise after the COVID-19 pandemic. Xiao Zhou, having been inactive for a prolonged period, seeks to regain physical fitness but overexerts himself, leading to physical and mental exhaustion and a decline in condition. The article explores the physiological role of the sarcoplasmic reticulum and delves into the chemical processes involving γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), and cortisol, influenced by exercise and impacting mood and muscle growth adversely. Additionally, it examines the effects of exercise on muscle fibers.

Key words: Exercise, Sarcoplasmic reticulum, γ-Aminobutyric acid (GABA), 5-Hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), Cortisol, Muscle fiber