We tested the hypothesis that periodic systemic administration of the myogenic cytokine leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) enhances the functional recovery of regenerating skeletal muscle following bupivacaine-induced degeneration. LIF had no effect on functional capacity or regenerating myofiber size in rat muscles at 7, 14, or 21 days post-injury. The results do not support exogenous administration of LIF as a treatment for acute muscle injury, but a more frequent dosing regimen should be tested.
Copyright 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.