HealthSeptember 1, 2026

myokines

MY-oh-kynz

Definition

Signaling proteins released by muscle fibers into the bloodstream in response to muscle contraction, which help communicate with other tissues and regulate immune function.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek 'myo-' (muscle) and 'kine' (movement or motion), referring to the substances muscles secrete to initiate physiological changes elsewhere.

In the news

The article highlights myokines as the biological mechanism through which skeletal muscle acts as an endocrine organ, influencing immune health and inflammation throughout the body.

Strong Muscles, Stronger Immunity? A 458K-Person Study Finds A Link

Read the full article ↗

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