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Updated: May 9, 2026
06:53
Parallel Measurement of Circadian Clock Gene Expression and Hormone Secretion in Human Primary Cell Cultures
Published on: November 11, 2016
Skeletal muscle: an endocrine organ
Alessandra Pratesi1, Francesca Tarantini, Mauro Di Bari
1Department of Critical Care Medicine and Surgery, Unit of Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine, University of Florence and "Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Careggi", Florence, Italy.
Summary
Aging muscle loss, or sarcopenia, is driven by an imbalance in muscle-regulating factors. Understanding these mechanisms, including the role of myokines, is key to preventing age-related disability and promoting healthy aging.
Area of Science:
- Muscle physiology and aging research.
- Endocrinology and inflammatory processes.
Background:
- Skeletal muscle function relies on a balance of anabolic and catabolic factors, which declines with age, causing sarcopenia.
- Sarcopenia significantly contributes to physical and functional impairments in older adults.
- Skeletal muscle is increasingly recognized as a secretory organ producing myokines.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the mechanisms underlying sarcopenia.
- To highlight the role of myokines in muscle health and inflammation.
- To connect physical inactivity to a pro-inflammatory state and associated chronic diseases.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on skeletal muscle physiology, aging, and myokines.
- Analysis of the role of cytokines and peptides (myokines) in muscle homeostasis.
- Examination of the link between physical inactivity, inflammation, and the "diseasome of physical inactivity".
Main Results:
- Aging disrupts the anabolic-catabolic balance, leading to sarcopenia and functional decline.
- Myokines (e.g., IL6, IL15) secreted by muscle play roles in autocrine, paracrine, and endocrine functions.
- Physical inactivity promotes a pro-inflammatory state, exacerbating sarcopenia and increasing risks for chronic diseases.
Conclusions:
- Understanding sarcopenia mechanisms, including myokine involvement, is crucial for preventing disability in the elderly.
- Counteracting the pro-inflammatory status associated with physical inactivity may mitigate sarcopenia and related chronic conditions.
- Targeting myokine pathways and promoting physical activity could be key strategies for healthy aging.
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