The complete and dynamic collection of signaling molecules, primarily peptide hormones and proteins, that are actively synthesized and secreted by contracting skeletal muscle fibers into the interstitial fluid and the systemic circulation. This secretome is a highly plastic entity, changing significantly in composition in direct response to muscle contraction, nutritional status, and the prevailing hormonal environment. The myokine secretome represents a critical endocrine pathway through which muscle tissue communicates its metabolic and energetic status to other distant organs, exerting systemic metabolic, anti-inflammatory, and neurotrophic effects.
Origin
The term is a compound of ‘myo’ (muscle) and ‘secretome’ (the entire set of secreted molecules), formalized following the discovery of key muscle-derived factors like Interleukin-6 (IL-6) and irisin in the early 2000s. This concept fundamentally redefined skeletal muscle from a simple locomotor tissue to a major endocrine organ that actively participates in systemic homeostatic regulation. Research is continuously identifying new myokines and elucidating their roles in interorgan communication.
Mechanism
Myokine release is primarily triggered by the mechanical tension and metabolic stress generated by muscle contraction, which activates specific intramuscular transcription factors like NF-κB and PGC-1alpha. Once secreted, these myokines travel through the bloodstream to act on specific receptors in target tissues, including the liver, adipose tissue, pancreas, and the brain. The secretome acts as a key integrator of exercise and metabolic health, linking physical activity directly to systemic benefits such as improved insulin sensitivity, reduced chronic inflammation, and enhanced neurogenesis.
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.