The Endocrine Role of the Musculoskeletal System

Due to their anatomical proximity, muscle and bone tissues are closely related with communication between the two tissues occurring through both physical and molecular mechanisms. Bone and muscle are endocrine organs in that both produce hormone-like molecules, influencing both each other and other distant tissues. The molecular communication between these two tissues constitutes a fundamental crosstalk. Various osteokines and myokines are involved in physiological mechanisms in bone and muscle, as well as in numerous other organs. Numerous in vivo and in vitro models have been developed over the years to clarify these mechanisms. A significant amount remains to be discovered about the endocrine role of the skeletal muscle system under physiological and pathological conditions.


The aim of this research topic is to:

1. Investigate the endocrine role of the musculoskeletal system under physiological and pathological conditions;

2. Understand the role of myokines and osteokines in muscle-bone crosstalk;

3. Clarify the role of molecules produced by these two organs in the physiology and pathology of other tissues and organs;

4. Explore in vitro and in vivo models for studying the mechanisms underlying bone-muscle crosstalk and its systemic effects.


Scientific articles and reviews highlighting the progress achieved in recent years in this field are of high interest. In addition, articles or reviews highlighting the endocrine role of these organs would be welcome. Of particular interest are studies on the role of myokines and osteokines involved in physiological and pathological processes. Particularly noteworthy contributions are studies using cellular or animal models and translational studies that also see an application in humans.