Creatine supplementation and muscle-brain axis: a new possible mechanism?

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Exercise Physiology
• Nutritional Biochemistry

Background:

• Creatine is crucial for energy metabolism in the brain and skeletal muscle.
• It functions as an energy buffer, reduces oxidative stress, and inflammation.
• Emerging evidence suggests creatine benefits cognitive function alongside exercise performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the muscle-brain axis and creatine's role in modulating myokines, specifically brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF).
• To discuss the multifactorial mechanisms of creatine, including bioenergetics, anti-inflammatory effects, and glucose metabolism.
• To highlight the potential of creatine for neuromuscular and cognitive health, particularly in aging and clinical populations.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and discussion of existing research on creatine, myokines, and the muscle-brain axis.
• Analysis of creatine's pleiotropic effects on cellular energy, inflammation, and metabolism.
• Examination of studies investigating creatine's impact on exercise performance and cognitive function.

Main Results:

• Creatine supplementation is established for enhancing exercise performance, strength, and lean mass.
• Myokines and the muscle-brain axis are linked to neuroprotection and cognitive performance.
• Creatine's benefits may stem from improved bioenergetics, reduced inflammation, and better glucose metabolism.

Conclusions:

• Creatine supplementation shows promise for supporting both neuromuscular and cognitive functions via the muscle-brain axis.
• Mechanisms involve enhanced energy buffering, reduced oxidative stress, and anti-inflammatory actions.
• Further research is essential to validate these effects and determine optimal creatine supplementation strategies for diverse populations.