Skeletal muscle functions around the clock.

Area of Science:

• Physiology
• Molecular Biology
• Chronobiology

Background:

• Mammals possess a central circadian clock in the central nervous system that regulates organ rhythms via molecular clockwork and signaling.
• The molecular clock influences physiological processes, metabolism, and energy balance.
• Skeletal muscle function, metabolism, and performance exhibit circadian rhythmicity, yet the molecular clock's role in skeletal muscle has been historically underestimated.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current understanding of the molecular clock's role in skeletal muscle circadian physiology.
• To focus on the clock's control over myogenesis and skeletal muscle metabolism.

Main Methods:

• This is a review article, synthesizing existing research on skeletal muscle circadian rhythms.
• It discusses the molecular mechanisms of the circadian clock in skeletal muscle.
• It examines how external stimuli like feeding and exercise can desynchronize peripheral clocks.

Main Results:

• The molecular clock is integral to skeletal muscle's daily rhythms in metabolism and function.
• External factors can reset peripheral clocks, leading to potential desynchronization from the central clock.
• The clock influences key processes like myogenesis (muscle development) and metabolic regulation within skeletal muscle.

Conclusions:

• The molecular clock is a critical regulator of skeletal muscle circadian physiology, impacting myogenesis and metabolism.
• Understanding this peripheral clock is essential for comprehending overall organismal energy balance and physiological adaptation.
• Further research is needed to fully elucidate the mechanisms and implications of skeletal muscle clock function.