The Influence and Delivery of Cytokines and their Mediating Effect on Muscle Satellite Cells

Purpose of ReviewSkeletal muscle satellite cells (SC) play an important role in the adaptation, repair, and maintenance of muscle. These resident muscle stem cells are regulated by a series of transcription factors known as myogenic regulator factors that orchestrate SC progression from the quiescent state through activation, proliferation, and differentiation, ultimately leading to the contribution of nuclei to muscle fibers. The purpose of this review was to provide an overview of the current state of knowledge on the role of cytokines in regulating muscle SC.Recent FindingsUpstream effectors of the myogenic regulatory factors include growth factors and cytokines that can influence SC function through autocrine/paracrine signaling delivered via the microvasculature and general circulation, or through cell interactions with other muscle-resident cells and structures.SummaryRecent evidence describing the relationship between capillaries and muscle SC highlights the importance of this anatomical relationship on SC function in response to physiological stimuli.