Muscle-derived interleukin-6: possible biological effects

J Physiol. 2001 Oct 15;536(Pt 2):329-37. doi: 10.1111/j.1469-7793.2001.0329c.xd.

Abstract

Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is produced locally in working skeletal muscle and can account for the increase in plasma IL-6 during exercise. The production of IL-6 during exercise is related to the intensity and duration of the exercise, and low muscle glycogen content stimulates the production. Muscle-derived IL-6 is released into the circulation during exercise in high amounts and is likely to work in a hormone-like fashion, exerting an effect on the liver and adipose tissue, thereby contributing to the maintenance of glucose homeostasis during exercise and mediating exercise-induced lipolysis. Muscle-derived IL-6 may also work to inhibit the effects of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as tumour necrosis factor alpha. The latter cytokine is produced by adipose tissue and inflammatory cells and appears to play a pathogenetic role in insulin resistance and atherogenesis.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Interleukin-6 / metabolism*
  • Muscle, Skeletal / immunology*
  • Muscle, Skeletal / metabolism*
  • Physical Exertion / physiology*

Substances

  • Interleukin-6