Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator 1β (PGC-1β) improves skeletal muscle mitochondrial function and insulin sensitivity

Proteins belonging to the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator 1 (PGC-1) family are key regulators of cellular energy homeostasis in a number of oxidative tissues, including skeletal muscle. While the regulation and function of PGC-1α seems central to muscle fibre plasticity in endurance exercise, the role of PGC-1β in this tissue is less clear. Wright et al. (Diabetologia, DOI: 10.1007/s00125-011-2068-x) provide evidence for a protective effect of moderately elevated PGC-1β in electroporated rat skeletal muscle against high-fat-diet-induced insulin resistance, at least in part by promoting the oxidation of long chain acyl-CoA entities and the elimination of reactive oxygen species. These data provide important insights into the biological role of PGC-1β in skeletal muscle and imply novel therapeutic avenues for improving peripheral insulin sensitivity.