MicroRNAs in skeletal muscle: their role and regulation in development, disease

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J Physiol. 2010 Nov 1;588(Pt 21):4075-87.

MicroRNAs in skeletal muscle: their role and regulation in development, disease

and function.

Güller I, AP.

Centre for Physical Activity and Nutrition Research, School of Exercise and

Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Burwood 3125, Australia.

Abstract

Maintaining skeletal muscle function throughout the lifespan is a prerequisite

for good health and independent living. For skeletal muscle to consistently

function at optimal levels, the efficient activation of processes that regulate

muscle development, growth, regeneration and metabolism is required.

Numerous conditions including neuromuscular disorders, physical inactivity,

chronic disease and ageing are associated with perturbations in skeletal muscle

function. A loss or reduction in skeletal muscle function often leads to

increased morbidity and mortality either directly, or indirectly, via the

development of secondary diseases such as diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular and

respiratory disease.

Identifying mechanisms which influence the processes regulating skeletal muscle

function is a key priority. The discovery of microRNAs (miRNAs) provides a new

avenue that will extend our knowledge of factors controlling skeletal muscle

function. miRNAs may also improve our understanding and application of current

therapeutic approaches as well as enable the identification of new therapeutic

strategies and targets aimed at maintaining and/or improving skeletal muscle

health.

This review brings together the latest developments in skeletal muscle miRNA

biology and focuses on their role and regulation under physiological and

patho-physiological conditions with an emphasis on: myogenesis, hypertrophy,

atrophy and regeneration; exercise and nutrition; muscle disease, ageing,

diabetes and obesity.