Abstract: Chronic obstructive pulmonary (COPD) has significant extra pulmonary effects, which could induce atrophy of peripheral skeletal muscle and respiratory muscles, and significantly influence the respiratory function and quality of life. Muscle nuclear factor (NF)-κB activation plays a key role in the skeletal muscle atrophy. This article discussed the potential mechanisms on how NF-κB signaling pathway increasing protein breakdown and reducing muscle regeneration. On this basis, we explored the role of NF-κB in skeletal muscle atrophy in patients with COPD during exercise.

Key words: chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, skeletal muscle atrophy, exercise, nuclear factor κB, review