Skeletal muscle plays a pivotal role in maintaining overall health and functional independence in humans. However, various factors can lead to the progressive decline of skeletal muscle mass and strength, a condition known as skeletal muscle atrophy. Understanding the underlying causes of this condition is essential for developing effective strategies to improve skeletal muscle function.

The factors contributing to skeletal muscle atrophy are multifaceted, including aging, sedentary lifestyles, chronic diseases, malnutrition, and hormonal imbalances. These factors can result in a negative protein balance, impaired muscle protein synthesis, and increased muscle protein breakdown, ultimately leading to muscle wasting. Juvenile Dermatomyositis (JDM), which primarily affects children and adolescents causes inflammation in the muscles and may lead to muscle atrophy. Currently, regulating the composition and structure of the intestinal microbiota through diet is one of the main directions for dietary therapy in JDM patients.

Currently, several approaches have been employed to counteract skeletal muscle atrophy and enhance muscle function. Resistance exercise training has shown promising results in stimulating muscle protein synthesis and mitigating muscle loss. Additionally, nutritional interventions, such as increasing dietary protein intake, have been advocated to support muscle anabolism and preserve muscle mass.

However, the future lies in the realm of precision nutrition, which focuses on personalizing dietary interventions aligned with an individual's unique genetic makeup, physiological characteristics, and specific nutrient requirements. Precision nutrition holds great potential in optimizing skeletal muscle function by tailoring dietary strategies to meet specific needs and goals.

This research topic serves as a platform to explore the significance of skeletal muscle function in human health, elucidate the factors that contribute to skeletal muscle atrophy, discuss current approaches for enhancing muscle function, and shed light on the future importance of precision nutrition in combating skeletal muscle atrophy. By integrating scientific advancements and practical implications, research on the relationship between gut microbiota and muscle function can help explore potential pathways for nutritional improvement. This research topic aims to provide valuable insights and evidence-based recommendations for researchers, healthcare professionals, and individuals interested in promoting skeletal muscle health and overall well-being.

We welcome submissions including but not limited to the following subtopics:
• new nutritional solutions that can improve muscle atrophy, such as bioactive compounds in food, micronutrients, and macronutrients
• application of interdisciplinary approaches, such as machine learning, to improve muscle atrophy condition
• the mechanisms of gut microbiota and skeletal muscle metabolism using animal models
• examination of the relationship between gut microbiota and disease-induced skeletal muscle atrophy in clinical settings, such as in patients with juvenile dermatomyositis

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Frontiers in Nutrition

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