Skeletal Muscle as a Mediator of Interorgan Crosstalk During Exercise: Implications for Aging and Obesity
Julia A. Pinette, Maléne E. Lindholm, Marco Sandri, Kristin I. Stanford
Abstract
Physical exercise is critical for preventing and managing chronic conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and sarcopenia. Regular physical activity significantly reduces cardiovascular and all-cause mortality. Exercise also enhances metabolic health by promoting muscle growth, mitochondrial biogenesis, and improved nutrient storage while preventing age-related muscle dysfunction. Key metabolic benefits include increased glucose uptake, enhanced fat oxidation, and the release of exercise-induced molecules called myokines, which mediate interorgan communication and improve overall metabolic function. These myokines and other exercise-induced signaling molecules hold promise as therapeutic targets for aging and obesity-related conditions.