Effects of Quercetin on Mitochondriogenesis in Skeletal Muscle

Quercetin is a phenolic compound belonging to the family of flavonoids and the group of flavonols, which is present in onions, apples, various types of berries, coffee, and tea. Numerous beneficial effects on health of this bioactive molecule have been reported in the literature. The present chapter focuses on the effects of quercetin on skeletal muscle mitochondria biogenesis and their consequences in terms of physical endurance and glycemic control in rodent models and human beings. Studies carried out on rodents show that quercetin is able to induce mitochondria biogenesis through increased mitochondrial DNA, genes that play a key role in this process (sirt-1, pparα, pgc-1α) and activity of oxidative enzymes. This effect leads to the enhancement of maximal exercise capacity. It has not been reproduced in human beings so far. In animal models showing insulin resistance induced by high-fat feeding, quercetin administration improved glycemic control.