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Why Muscle Mass Matters for Healthy Longevity
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Dr. Tina Sugandh
- Posted on
💪 Muscle Health • Exercise Science • Preventive Medicine
Scientists: Muscles Are Much More Important Than Previously Thought
📋 University of Ostrava • IKEM Prague • Myokines • Endocrine Organ • 6 min read
🧫 Muscles are now recognized as an endocrine organ — releasing myokines that influence virtually all body systems.
💪 The Paradigm Shift
Scientists from the University of Ostrava and the Institute of Clinical and Experimental Medicine (IKEM) in Prague, Czech Republic, have published a comprehensive review of modern research on the role of skeletal muscles in the body.
The authors note that the study of myokines in recent decades has radically changed the scientific understanding of muscles. Today, they are considered not only as part of the musculoskeletal system, but also as an endocrine organ that influences the functioning of virtually all body systems.
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Paradigm Shift Muscles = endocrine organ
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Myokines Signaling molecules from muscles
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Whole-Body Impact Affects all body systems
💡 Key Insight: “The study of myokines in recent decades has radically changed the scientific understanding of muscles. Today, they are considered not only as part of the musculoskeletal system, but also as an endocrine organ.”
🧬 What Are Myokines?
Myokines are signaling molecules released by muscles during physical activity. They act like hormones and transmit signals through the blood to:
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Brain Cognition & mood
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Heart Cardiovascular health
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Liver Metabolism
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Pancreas Insulin sensitivity
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Bones Bone density
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Immune System Inflammation regulation
Myokines influence metabolism, inflammation, insulin sensitivity, and tissue repair processes. Hundreds of myokines have been described to date, but the functions of many of them are still being studied.
📚 References: PubMed — Myokines Research • Nature — Myokines
🩺 Why This Matters for Chronic Disease Prevention
These findings help explain why regular physical activity reduces the risk of:
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Type 2 Diabetes Improved insulin sensitivity
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Cardiovascular Disease Heart and vascular health
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Dementia Cognitive protection
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Osteoporosis Bone health
💡 Key Finding: Myokine signaling provides a molecular explanation for the protective effects of physical activity against multiple chronic diseases.
📉 Muscle Loss and Healthy Longevity
Other studies show that after age 30, muscle mass begins to gradually decline. Its preservation is now considered a key factor in healthy longevity.
📌 Key Message: This is why strength training is important not only for maintaining strength but also for overall health.
💪 The Importance of Strength Training
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Preserves Muscle Mass
Slows age-related muscle loss
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Promotes Myokine Release
Stimulates beneficial signaling molecules
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Improves Overall Health
Reduces chronic disease risk
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What are myokines?
Myokines are signaling molecules released by muscles during physical activity. They act like hormones and transmit signals through the blood to various organs, influencing metabolism, inflammation, and tissue repair.
Why are muscles now considered an endocrine organ?
Because they release signaling molecules (myokines) that affect virtually all body systems — including the brain, heart, liver, pancreas, bones, and immune system — similar to hormones released by classic endocrine glands.
How does muscle mass affect longevity?
After age 30, muscle mass begins to decline. Preserving muscle mass is now considered a key factor in healthy longevity, as muscles release signaling molecules that support overall health and reduce chronic disease risk.
What type of exercise promotes myokine release?
Physical activity in general, but strength training is particularly effective. Regular exercise stimulates the release of myokines that benefit metabolism, inflammation, and overall health.
Who conducted this research?
Scientists from the University of Ostrava and the Institute of Clinical and Experimental Medicine (IKEM) in Prague, Czech Republic.
📚 References & Resources
- PubMed — Myokines Research
- Nature — Myokines
- WHO — Physical Activity Guidelines
- IKEM Prague — Official Website
⚠️ Medical Disclaimer
This content is for informational and educational purposes only. The research findings are based on scientific evidence and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting a new exercise program or making significant lifestyle changes.
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