Effects of N-acetylcysteine and L-arginine in the antioxidant system of C2C12 cells

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of N-acetylcysteine or L-arginine in the antioxidant system of skeletal muscle cells in culture. We used C2C12 cells which were supplemented or not with N-acetylcysteine or L-arginine at different time points. Antioxidant enzymes' activities and protein expression were evaluated. Additionally, superoxide production by cytochrome c reduction method was carried out. It was observed that the supplementation with either N-acetylcysteine or L-arginine was capable to acutely reduce superoxide production (after 30 and 60 minutes). Surprisingly, N-acetylcysteine supplementation also induced an increased production of superoxide during the period of 24 hours. Moreover, both supplements were capable to improve the activity and protein expression of some antioxidants enzymes. In conclusion, we have found new evidences showing that N-acetylcysteine or L-arginine supplementation can provide some benefits to the antioxidant system of skeletal muscle cells in culture. Further studies have to be carried out to evaluate if such benefits could also occur in an in vivo model, with possible benefits for athletes' health and performance.