Muscle and bone function as a highly integrated physiological unit, essential for mobility and metabolic health throughout life. Emerging research highlights the role of biochemical signaling—such as myokines and osteokines—along with neural, vascular, and mechanical interactions in maintaining musculoskeletal integrity. Dysregulation of this crosstalk contributes to the pathogenesis of osteoporosis, sarcopenia, osteosarcopenia, and frailty. Recent advances in multi-omics, imaging, and biomarker development offer new insights into molecular pathophysiology and tissue-level communication. However, significant gaps remain in translating these findings into effective therapies. This Research Topic will explore the underlying mechanisms, pathologies, diagnostic tools, and intervention strategies to address musculoskeletal decline in aging and disease.
This Research Topic aims to bridge fundamental biological insights with clinical applications to improve musculoskeletal health. We seek to elucidate the molecular, pathological and cellular basis of muscle–bone communication, identify reliable biomarkers, and evaluate innovative therapeutic approaches. By fostering multidisciplinary collaboration, we hope to accelerate the development of targeted interventions that prevent fractures, enhance physical function, and promote healthy aging across diverse populations.
We welcome Original Research, Literature reviews/Mini reviews, Methods papers, and Perspectives that address: • Molecular mechanisms (myokines, osteokines, Wnt, mTOR, senescence, etc.) • Pathophysiology of muscle–bone communication • Multi-omics and data science approaches • Biomarkers and advanced imaging techniques • Pharmacologic, nutritional, and exercise-based interventions • Special clinical contexts and implementation science All submissions should adhere to relevant reporting guidelines (e.g., CONSORT, PRISMA) and promote transparent, reproducible science.
Article types and fees
This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:
Brief Research Report
Case Report
Clinical Trial
Editorial
FAIR² Data
General Commentary
Methods
Mini Review
Original Research
Articles that are accepted for publication by our external editors following rigorous peer review incur a publishing fee charged to Authors, institutions, or funders.
Article types
This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:
Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.
