Muscle metabolic alterations assessed by 31-phosphorus magnetic resonance spectroscopy in mild Becker muscular dystrophy

Although the molecular defect causing Becker muscular dystrophy (BMD) has been identified, the biochemical mechanisms that lead to muscle necrosis remain unclear. Exercise-related muscle metabolism in 9 mildly affected BMD patients was assessed by muscle 31-phosphorus magnetic resonance spectroscopy ((31)P MRS) during an incremental workload. Compared with normal controls, BMD patients showed deregulation of resting pH and intramuscular membrane breakdown. We also observed increased reliance upon anaerobic metabolism during sustained submaximal contraction and maintenance of oxidative function during recovery.