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

[Guest guest]

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.

(entire article at

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3002442/?tool=pubmed

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.