Myokines

Abstract

Myokines are low-molecular-weight peptides that are formed, expressed on the surface, and secreted into the bloodstream by muscle fibers. They have autocrine, paracrine and endocrine effects, especially on muscles. Significance of myokines for medicine is determined by the fact that muscles are the largest part of the body by their mass and volume and provide the first and the most vitally important function, the movement. All pathological processes are associated with violations of myokine formation, distribution, and interaction with target cells. Providing a deep insight into these processes is a big and complex topic. Nevertheless, at the current level of knowledge, myokine-oriented medical practices can be quite effective since these practices are based on reasonable physical activity adjusted to a specific task.