International Journal of Molecular Sciences (Jul 2023)

The Role of Macrophage Populations in Skeletal Muscle Insulin Sensitivity: Current Understanding and Implications

  • Min-Kyeong Lee,
  • Heeyeon Ryu,
  • Ji Yun Van,
  • Myeong-Jin Kim,
  • Hyeon Hak Jeong,
  • Won-Kyo Jung,
  • Joo Yun Jun,
  • Bonggi Lee

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms241411467
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 24, no. 14
p. 11467

Abstract

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Insulin resistance is a crucial factor in the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and other metabolic disorders. Skeletal muscle, the body’s largest insulin-responsive tissue, plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of T2DM due to defects in insulin signaling. Recently, there has been growing evidence that macrophages, immune cells essential for tissue homeostasis and injury response, also contribute to the development of skeletal muscle insulin resistance. This review aims to summarize the current understanding of the role of macrophages in skeletal muscle insulin resistance. Firstly, it provides an overview of the different macrophage populations present in skeletal muscle and their specific functions in the development of insulin resistance. Secondly, it examines the underlying mechanisms by which macrophages promote or alleviate insulin resistance in skeletal muscle, including inflammation, oxidative stress, and altered metabolism. Lastly, the review discusses potential therapeutic strategies targeting macrophages to improve skeletal muscle insulin sensitivity and metabolic health.

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