Intracellular and extracellular redox signals during exercise and aging

Area of Science:

• Exercise physiology
• Redox biology
• Aging research

Background:

• Physical activity enhances health through reactive oxygen species (ROS) modulating redox signaling.
• Skeletal muscle is a key site for exercise-induced redox signaling, impacting systemic responses.
• Aging impairs redox signaling, leading to neuromuscular degeneration and reduced exercise benefits.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review how redox signaling mediates local and systemic responses to exercise.
• To focus on the roles of skeletal muscle and aging in exercise-induced redox adaptations.
• To explore the potential of exercise-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) in counteracting age-related decline.

Main Methods:

• Review of literature on ROS generation in myofibers (mitochondrial and NADPH oxidase systems).
• Analysis of redox signal-initiated adaptive responses beyond muscle, including exerkines and EVs.
• Examination of aging's impact on redox signaling and neuromuscular function, referencing animal models.

Main Results:

• ROS generated during exercise act as signaling molecules, influencing both local muscle adaptation and systemic responses.
• Exercise promotes the release of signaling factors, including extracellular vesicles (EVs), that facilitate interorgan communication.
• Aging disrupts redox homeostasis, impairs neuromuscular function, and diminishes the adaptive response to exercise.

Conclusions:

• Exercise-induced redox signaling is crucial for systemic health and adaptation.
• Exercise-derived EVs may serve as therapeutic agents against age-associated metabolic and neuromuscular decline.
• Targeting redox signaling pathways presents a promising strategy for mitigating aging-related health issues.