Exerkines, Nutrition, and Systemic Metabolism

Area of Science:

• Exercise physiology
• Metabolic signaling
• Nutritional science

Background:

• Good health relies on exercise, proper food, and nutrition.
• The human body's metabolism integrates physiologic processes across cells, tissues, organs, and systems.
• Exerkines, signaling molecules released during exercise, are emerging as key mediators between nutrient supply and the brain.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the role of exerkines in exercise metabolism and brain physiology.
• To integrate exerkine actions with systemic metabolism during physical activity.
• To explore the influence of diet and macronutrients on exercise-induced metabolic changes and exerkine function.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on exerkines, metabolism, and exercise.
• Analysis of existing research on signaling molecules like oxylipins, adiponectin, BDNF, lactate, ROS, and cytokines.
• Examination of the role of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and their derivatives (endocannabinoids, oxylipins) as exerkines.

Main Results:

• Exerkines are diverse compounds (e.g., 12,13-diHOME, adiponectin, BDNF, lactate, ROS, IL-6) released by muscle, adipose, and liver.
• These molecules support energy needs, particularly for the brain, during and after exercise.
• Evidence suggests PUFA derivatives like endocannabinoids and oxylipins function as exerkines.

Conclusions:

• Exerkines play a crucial role in mediating the metabolic and physiological adaptations to exercise.
• Understanding exerkine function provides insights into the interplay between diet, exercise, and systemic metabolism.
• Further research into exerkines can enhance strategies for optimizing health and performance through nutrition and physical activity.