Gut microbes-muscle axis in muscle function and meat quality
Yiwen He1,2, Hong Hu1,3, Xuqing Liang1,4
1Key Laboratory of Agro-ecological Processes in Subtropical Region, Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changsha, 410125, China.
Science China. Life Sciences
|April 12, 2025
Summary
The gut microbes-muscle axis links gut bacteria to muscle health. This review explores how gut microbes influence muscle mass, strength, and metabolism in humans and animals.
Area of Science:
- Microbiome research
- Muscle physiology
- Host-microbe interactions
Background:
- The gut microbes-muscle axis highlights the connection between intestinal microbiota and the muscular system.
- Current understanding and applications of this axis are still developing.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and discuss the factors mediating gut microbes-muscle crosstalk.
- To examine the effects of the gut microbes-muscle axis on muscle characteristics.
- To explore implications for human and animal health and industries.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of factors influencing the gut microbes-muscle axis.
- Analysis of the impact on muscle mass, strength, metabolism, oxidative, and immune status.
- Examination of effects on muscle fiber type, fat deposition, and meat quality.
Main Results:
- Identified key mediators including short-chain fatty acids, amino acids, vitamins, bile acids, antibiotics, cytokines, hormones, and extracellular vesicles.
- Demonstrated influence on muscle mass, strength, metabolism, oxidative capacity, and immune function.
- Showcased effects on muscle fiber type, fat deposition, and meat quality in various species.
Conclusions:
- The gut microbes-muscle axis plays a significant role in modulating muscle physiology and health.
- Provides a theoretical basis for future research into the gut microbes-muscle axis.
- Offers practical applications for the biomedical and livestock sectors.
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