Muscle-Organ Crosstalk describes the complex, bidirectional communication network mediated by secreted signaling molecules between skeletal muscle and distant organ systems, including adipose tissue, liver, bone, and the brain. This communication establishes muscle not merely as a locomotive structure but as a highly active endocrine organ that profoundly influences systemic metabolic and hormonal homeostasis. The integrity of this crosstalk is essential for metabolic health, as disruptions are implicated in the pathogenesis of insulin resistance, chronic inflammation, and age-related cognitive decline. Understanding these signals is key to therapeutic strategies that leverage exercise for systemic wellness.
Origin
The concept gained significant traction with the discovery of myokines—peptides released by muscle fibers during contraction—in the early 21st century, fundamentally changing the view of muscle physiology. The term “crosstalk” is an engineering metaphor adopted by biology to describe the mutual exchange of chemical information between two or more systems. Its importance in endocrinology is rooted in the recognition that muscle contraction is a primary driver of systemic hormonal balance, acting as a metabolic hub that integrates physical activity with internal physiological signaling.
Mechanism
The mechanism is primarily mediated by the release of myokines, such as Interleukin-6 (IL-6) and Irisin, which travel through the circulation to exert endocrine-like effects on remote tissues. For example, myokines can act on adipose tissue to promote lipolysis and improve insulin sensitivity, signal to the liver to regulate glucose production, and even cross the blood-brain barrier to influence neurogenesis and mood. This constant chemical dialogue ensures that energy expenditure in the muscle is precisely balanced by adaptive changes in energy storage and utilization throughout the rest of the body, maintaining a tight metabolic equilibrium.
We use cookies to personalize content and marketing, and to analyze our traffic. This helps us maintain the quality of our free resources. manage your preferences below.
Detailed Cookie Preferences
This helps support our free resources through personalized marketing efforts and promotions.
Analytics cookies help us understand how visitors interact with our website, improving user experience and website performance.
Personalization cookies enable us to customize the content and features of our site based on your interactions, offering a more tailored experience.