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The crosstalk between BAT thermogenesis and skeletal muscle dysfunction
Yao Chen1, Qian Hu2, Changyi Wang3,4
1Department of Breast Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
Frontiers in Physiology
|May 8, 2023
Summary
Brown adipose tissue (BAT) and skeletal muscle communicate to regulate metabolism and body temperature. Targeting BAT may offer new treatments for metabolic disorders and muscle weakness, including sarcopenia.
Area of Science:
- Metabolic regulation and tissue crosstalk
- Endocrinology and exercise physiology
Background:
- Metabolic dysfunction and skeletal muscle diseases are linked in a detrimental cycle.
- Brown adipose tissue (BAT) and skeletal muscle are key regulators of energy homeostasis and thermogenesis.
- Cross-talk between BAT and skeletal muscle involves secreted factors (batokines and myokines) influencing each other's function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the intricate crosstalk between brown adipose tissue and skeletal muscle.
- To discuss the role of batokines and their impact on skeletal muscle physiology.
- To explore the therapeutic potential of targeting BAT for metabolic and muscle-related diseases.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing research on BAT-skeletal muscle interactions.
- Analysis of the physiological roles of batokines and myokines.
- Synthesis of current understanding of metabolic regulation by these tissues.
Main Results:
- BAT influences skeletal muscle function through secreted batokines.
- Skeletal muscle myokines can modulate BAT activity.
- This bidirectional communication is crucial for maintaining energy balance.
Conclusions:
- Brown adipose tissue is a promising therapeutic target for obesity and diabetes.
- Modulating BAT activity could be a novel strategy to treat muscle weakness and sarcopenia by addressing metabolic deficits.
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