Gender and age-related characteristics of 20S proteasomes response under conditions of calorie restriction

Relevance. The proteasome 20S is a representative of the ubiquitin-protease system, which regulates anabolic and catabolic processes. Searching for ways to control this process is important. Purpose of the study. To study the activation features of the 20S proteasome under low-caloric nutrition conditions and establish relationships between human gender, age and weight characteristics. Materials and methods. The study examined 48 subjects aged 18-75 (11 males and 37 females) received low-energy diet (800-1200 calories/day), fasting therapy, physical therapy and cleansing treatments, as well as physical activity at the Health Center in Maikop, Russia. Blood 20S concentration was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, body composition by impedance method. Results. Gender difference in dominant body component determining 20S activity. In females, adipose tissue was dominant; in males, dominant sector not identified. Wellness program led to weight loss and 20S activation regardless of calorie restriction degree. Females under 50 showed activations due to fat while inhibiting muscle and lean masses. Females over 50 had activity in muscle and lean mass while inhibiting fat. Males showed no such patterns in 20S proteasome response. Data suggest different levels of resynthesis, autophagy and apoptosis activation. Calorie restriction is physiological stressor for 20S activation. Conclusion. Hypocaloric diet and fasting with physical therapy can be alternative method for protein pool renewal and resynthesis in humans. Gender and age characteristics should be considered when using these techniques.