Exercise-Released Myokines in the Control of Energy Metabolism

Physical activity reduces cardiometabolic risk, while physical inactivity increases chronic diseases risk. This led to the idea that exercise-induced muscle contraction contributes to metabolic regulation and health. It is now well established that skeletal muscle, through the release of endocrine factors, i.e., so-called myokines, crosstalk with metabolic organs such as adipose tissue, liver and pancreas. Recent advances suggested that a number of myokines are able to modulate adipose tissue metabolism and thermogenic activity, liver endogenous glucose production and β-cell insulin secretion. This novel paradigm offers a compelling hypothesis and molecular basis to explain the link between physical inactivity and chronic diseases. Herein, we review major findings and recent advances linking exercise, myokines secretion and inter-organ crosstalk. Identifying the molecular mediators linking physical activity to metabolic health could open the path toward novel therapeutic targets in metabolic diseases.